Cyprus property department disputes refugee committee allegations

The Department of Management of Turkish Cypriot Properties has responded to allegations made by the Parliamentary Refugee Committee regarding the management of Turkish Cypriot properties. The Department accused committee members of engaging in ‘populism and unsubstantiated public reports’ intended to create impressions without providing specific evidence.

Addressing specific cases, the Department stated that approximately 30 years ago, a total area of 150,412 square meters was granted to the family of an employee based on the procedures in place at that time. Following intensive audits conducted over the last three years under the direction of Interior Minister and Guardian of Turkish Cypriot Properties, Konstantinou Ioannou, the relevant contracts were terminated in 2024.

A lease for 31,000 square meters remains in effect for the former employee, who is now retired, for agricultural use. The Department emphasized its ‘zero tolerance’ policy toward corruption, mismanagement, or the violation of established procedures, asserting that all complaints supported by specific evidence are investigated to restore legality.