Metehan Border Crossing smuggling arrest

A TRNC citizen residing in South Cyprus was apprehended at the Gönyeli Metehan Border Crossing for attempting to transport undeclared goods. During a customs inspection on October 9, 2026, authorities discovered 77 pieces of branded clothing, two original wristwatches (Titanium and Seiko brands), 10 electronic and computer components, and five cosmetic items.

The estimated value of the seized items includes the watches, valued at 150,000 TL each, and other goods totaling 238,000 TL. The individual claimed the items were intended as gifts for friends.

Following a court appearance, Judge Gizem Erciyas ordered the suspect's release under specific conditions: a 40,000 TL cash deposit, a 700,000 TL guarantee signed by a TRNC citizen, a weekly reporting requirement, and a ban on traveling abroad pending further legal proceedings.