Human trafficking suspects arrested in Haspolat military zone

Five Iranian nationals and a Pakistani national have been apprehended for attempting to illegally cross into Southern Cyprus through a first-degree military restricted zone in the Haspolat region.

According to police reports, the group was caught by sentry soldiers at approximately 04:30 on August 25. Investigations revealed that the Iranian group, which includes a couple and two children aged 12 and 14, arrived in Northern Cyprus on August 23. One of the migrants stated they traveled from Iran to Turkey and then to Northern Cyprus to find work in the south.

The Pakistani suspect, identified as Z. A., was found to have arranged the crossing for a fee of 2,250 euros. Z. A., who holds student status in the country, admitted to previously crossing into Southern Cyprus and returning to Northern Cyprus via illegal routes.

Following court proceedings in Lefkoşa, the five Iranian suspects and their two children were ordered to be held for six days. The Pakistani suspect was remanded in custody for up to 30 days to face human trafficking charges.