Philenews

Prosecutions of Squatters in Occupied Cyprus to Continue

Published January 3, 2026, 08:16
Prosecutions of Squatters in Occupied Cyprus to Continue

The Cypriot government is committed to continuing prosecutions against individuals squatting on Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied territories, despite opposition and difficulties. The occupying side and other parties criticize these prosecutions, arguing that they negatively affect the climate for resuming negotiations. The Cypriot government rejects these criticisms, emphasizing that combating illegality cannot be considered negative for the climate and that accepting it would consolidate the occupation. The occupation leader, Tufan Erhurman, characterized the prosecutions as an attempt to blackmail Turkish Cypriots, while threatening retaliation, claiming that Turkish Cypriots also have the right to file lawsuits. The Republic of Cyprus insists on protecting the rights of property owners and will continue legal efforts to prevent the illegal exploitation of properties.