Individual wanted for drug offenses caught at the border gate with south Cyprus trying to leave north Cyprus

An individual who was wanted by the police for drug-related offenses, was apprehended at the Lokmacı Border Gate with south Cyprus on Sunday.

The suspect identified only as RC, 18 a Moroccan national was brought to the Lefkosa district court on Monday December 9 for "unlawfully possessing and obtaining drugs".

Speaking in court, police said on December 7, while the Crime Prevention Unit of the Lefkosia Police Directorate was patrolling on Dr. Fazıl Küçük Boulevard, they spotted one AB, 21 a resident of Gönyeli by the roadside. Upon inspection, they discovered a substance believed to be 40 grams of cannabis and a driver’s license belonging to RC.

The police reported that when questioned, AB denied ownership of the bag and claimed not to know RC. However, an examination of his mobile phone revealed WhatsApp messages about the substance exchanged with RC.

The police further noted that RC was apprehended at the Lokmacı Border Gate on Sunday December 8 while attempting to leave. During his statement, RC claimed that he had given his backpack to AB 15 days prior and had also lost his wallet.

The police said the investigation is ongoing, with RC’s phone to be analyzed for data and requested an additional three days of detention.

After evaluating the testimony, the judge ordered RC to remain in custody for three days.