Man arrested for rape in north Cyprus, more than two years after the incident

An individual was arrested and brought to court on Tuesday in connection with a rape incident that occurred in July 2022 in Lefkosa, North Cyprus.

The suspect named only as E.K. was arrested and brought to court on Tuesday February 2025 on charges of sexual assault.

Police officer who testified in court said on July 20, 2022, at around 12:15 am, the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted one T.M. in a bedroom of a residence in Lefkcosia while the victim was intoxicated and asleep, without their consent.

The officer explained that the complaint was filed on July 21, 2022. However, before the suspect's statement could be taken, it was determined that he had legally exited the country through the Lokmacı Land Border Gate, leading to him being declared a wanted person.

The police stated that E.K. was apprehended upon re-entering the country through the Metehan Border Gate on February 10, 2025. Despite the crime occurring in 2022, the investigation could not proceed due to the suspect's absence from the country.

The police noted that further statements needed to be taken and that E.K. had denied the allegations in his verbal statement. They requested a two-day detention extension for the ongoing investigation.

The suspect's lawyer argued that other individuals had already been arrested in connection with the incident at the time.

After evaluating the testimony, the judge ordered that E.K. remain in custody for an additional two days.