Alpha News

Erhurman Convenes 'Security Council' Over Organized Crime in the Occupied Territories

Published January 7, 2026, 13:35

The Turkish Cypriot leader, Tufan Erhurman, announced the convening of a 'security council' to address the growing problem of organized crime in the occupied territories. This decision comes after a new armed attack in occupied Nicosia, which raised concerns about the safety of citizens and businesses. Erhurman pointed out that the 17-year-old arrested for the attack is likely linked to a wider criminal organization. In his statement, Erhurman expressed his satisfaction with the suspect's arrest and wished a speedy recovery to the two injured. At the same time, however, he raised critical questions about the effectiveness of security checks in the occupied territories and how weapons used in criminal acts are introduced. Erhurman also wondered why the entry of individuals with criminal intent into the occupied territories is not prevented. He stressed that the safety of citizens is of paramount importance and that immediate answers to the questions raised must be found. The convening of the 'security council' indicates the increasing seriousness of the problem of organized crime in the occupied territories and the need for coordinated efforts to address it. The community expects specific proposals and measures to restore safety and trust.