Bases arrest man on suspicion of drug trafficking after claiming he crossed into occupied
Source: in-cyprus.com
British Bases police have arrested a 32-year-old Greek Cypriot man on suspicion of drug trafficking after investigations challenged his claims of accidentally entering the occupied north.
The Nicosia district resident was detained following evidence suggesting he was in the territory and attempting to return to government-controlled areas through an uncontrolled crossing point, according to Philenews sources.
Police sources said the suspect was arrested to investigate potential involvement in drug smuggling operations. The incident occurred at 4:00 am near the road leading from Xylotymbou to the Strovilia checkpoint.
British Bases police investigate drug trafficking allegations
In his initial statement, the man claimed he entered the occupied territory accidentally via a dirt road whilst seeking to relieve himself. He alleged he saw lights directed towards him and realised they came from occupation authorities’ guard post.
The suspect said he began running and managed to cross back into government-controlled areas, leaving his vehicle behind during the alleged escape.
British Bases Dhekelia police investigations appear to contradict these claims, with evidence suggesting deliberate movement between territories rather than accidental crossing.
The man was released after he was charged in writing. He is set to appear before Dkehelia police in two weeks.
The British Sovereign Base Areas maintain their own police force with jurisdiction over the territory, which includes parts of the buffer zone between the two sides of Cyprus.
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