A 26-year-old Turkish national accused of abducting his child from Limassol was arrested in the north, according to reports in the Turkish Cypriot press. The case concerns the alleged removal of the child from the mother and the subsequent transfer to the occupied areas, with authorities in the north reportedly launching an investigation following media reports that were treated as an official complaint.
Arrest in Famagusta
According to the Turkish Cypriot “police”, the suspect was located in Famagusta together with his son. The 26-year-old is reportedly facing allegations relating to “illegal entry and violation of a military prohibited zone”, as well as “departure from the north without permission from the competent authorities”. The case comes amid ongoing investigations by the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus into the alleged abduction.
Child placed with grandmother
Social services in the north intervened regarding the welfare of the child and decided that he should remain temporarily in a familiar environment with his grandmother. Authorities have not publicly disclosed further details regarding the child’s condition or any possible custody procedures.
Arrest warrant issued by Republic of Cyprus
An arrest warrant had already been issued against the father by the police of the Republic of Cyprus. The development follows earlier reports that a 53-year-old alleged accomplice had been placed under an eight-day detention order while authorities sought cooperation from the Turkish Cypriot side regarding the case.
