Greek Cypriot authorities seek arrest warrants for 18 Turkish officials

The Greek Cypriot administration has issued arrest warrants and sought Interpol red notices regarding an incident that occurred on August 8, 1996, in the buffer zone of Cyprus. During a memorial service for Solomos Solomu, Greek Cypriot leader Nikos Christodulides announced that investigations into the event have led to search and arrest orders for 18 Turkish individuals.

According to reports, five of the individuals, identified as members of the Turkish Armed Forces, are subject to Interpol red notices, while 13 others face in-absentia arrest warrants from Greek Cypriot courts. The administration intends to apply for red notices for the remaining 13 individuals.

The 1996 incident involved an attempt by Solomos Solomu to lower the Turkish flag in the buffer zone. The situation was managed by then-Lieutenant General Hasan Kundakçı, known as ‘Tamburalı Paşa’, who issued orders to prevent the flag from being lowered. The memorial service also drew local criticism in Cyprus due to the attire of European Parliament Member Fidias Panayotu, who attended wearing white shorts.