Police in Nicosia have arrested two men, ages 57 and 27, on suspicion of helping a third‑country national enter the Republic of Cyprus illegally.
Authorities say the 57‑year‑old drove his car through the Ayios Dhometios crossing from the Turkish‑occupied north around 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. Customs officers found a 27‑year‑old third‑country national hidden in the vehicle.
According to police, the younger man told officers he had paid the driver to bring him into the government‑controlled areas. After the statement, the 57‑year‑old allegedly attempted to flee by turning the car back toward the occupied areas, but officers stopped him. Police say he resisted arrest.
Officers found €7,500 and 15,475 Turkish lira in his possession. Investigators say he did not provide a satisfactory explanation for the cash, and its origin is being examined.
The 27‑year‑old was also arrested on suspicion of illegal entry.
Both men appeared before the Nicosia District Court on Thursday. The court ordered them held for six days while the case is investigated. The Nicosia CID is leading the inquiry.
