Five Greek Cypriots were detained on Saturday, on the eve of the 51st anniversary of the illegal Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, by the “authorities” of the Turkish-Cypriot side for allegedly spying.
The five individuals, elderly men and women, were reportedly visiting their properties in the occupied town of Trikomo (Yeni İskele) located in North-Eastern Mesaoria in Cyprus.
Greece’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Theodoros Gotsis, confirmed the incident.
The arrests are believed to be a response to recent prosecutions against individuals accused of illegally usurping Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied north. The five were expected to appear today before a so-called “court” in the occupied territories.
The occupying regime had previously announced such retaliatory measures. Earlier this week, a Greek national was arrested on similar charges and remains in custody.
The authorities of the Republic of Cyprus have been informed since the incident occurred and are taking the necessary diplomatic steps. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also in contact with the United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus.
