Three Suspects Caught With Kalashnikov and Ammunition Remanded for 8 Days

Police Sergeant Mustafa Özmüezzin of the Kyrenia Criminal Division testified in court, stating that on 4 June 2025 around 4:00 p.m., the Crime Prevention Unit of the Kyrenia Police Department carried out the "Uzun Yol" operation across Kyrenia and Esentepe.

He said a vehicle used by Fuat Uğraşlı and his residence were searched, revealing one 7.62 mm Kalashnikov rifle, 16 magazines, and 533 rounds of live 7.62 mm ammunition. In addition, approximately 376 grams of cannabis, 5 grams of heroin, and 70 grams of cocaine were seized, along with two precision scales and cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales—€775, $1,015, £950, and ₺10,420.

Özmüezzin told the court that messages found on the suspects’ phones revealed frequent contact with an individual referred to as “Boss,” to whom they were reportedly sending updates.

Suspect Orhan Korkmaz, who entered the country on a tourist visa on 31 May, allegedly attempted to flee the island, leaving his suitcase behind. He was apprehended at Ercan Airport around 1:30 a.m. on the night of the operation while trying to board a flight.

Security footage from the Deniz Villaları area and a residence in the Karaoğlanoğlu district is currently under review. Özmüezzin noted that the investigation remains ongoing and that an arrest warrant has been issued for another identified individual.

During the hearing, Uğraşlı’s lawyer claimed the weapon in question belonged to his client’s father and dated back to the TMT era, asserting it was a type of firearm once used by EOKA. He also noted that some of the bullets were damp and rusty. The defence did not object to the remand request.

Judge Temay Sağer granted the police's request for eight days of detention, citing the ongoing and multifaceted nature of the investigation.