Newsroom
Despite being acquitted by the so-called “military court” in occupied Nicosia, five Greek Cypriots remain unable to return to the free areas, showcasing both the procedural irregularities and ongoing tensions in the occupied territories.
The five were arrested on 19 July 2025, accused of illegally entering a “military zone” near the Strovilia checkpoint, with four others charged with aiding and abetting. On Friday, the “court” ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove the allegations “beyond reasonable doubt,” citing a lack of motive, investigative deficiencies, and insufficient evidence.
The court noted that the main defendant had no restrictions on crossing the checkpoint and had a long history of legal crossings alongside his co-defendants. Surveillance footage at the checkpoint was non-functional, and crucial investigative steps, such as fingerprint analysis on the ID card of one accused, were not carried out. The claim that the defendant entered the area to gather intelligence was dismissed as unfounded.
“The investigation contained serious shortcomings,” the court stated, adding that officials at the crossing points must ensure proper checks for everyone, regardless of nationality. With the acquittal of the main defendant, the four others were also cleared of the aiding-and-abetting charges.
Despite the verdict, the three Greek Cypriots not facing additional charges remain unable to leave the occupied areas because their identity cards have not been returned. Their lawyer, Oncel Polili, said he would request the cards from the Trikomo police but noted that the prosecution could file an appeal within 14 days, potentially delaying their release.
Polili emphasized the irregularities that led to the acquittal: “The failure to check fingerprints was officially recorded as an investigative deficiency. Five Greek Cypriots entered here as innocent. They will leave as innocent.”
The situation has caused frustration, as even the court acknowledged that standard procedures were not followed and essential evidence was missing. The two others remain subject to a separate trial in the Trikomo “district court,” prolonging uncertainty for all five.
