"Professional" Smuggler on Trial for Trafficking Migrants from Occupied Territories

A 57-year-old Turkish Cypriot resident of the Nicosia district has been brought to trial before the **Criminal Court** on charges of trafficking migrants from the occupied territories to the free areas of the Republic of Cyprus. A 27-year-old Syrian man, who was found in the smuggler's vehicle, has also been referred to the Criminal Court.

According to police sources speaking to **Cyprus Times**, this was not the first time the 57-year-old had transported migrants in this manner. The Nicosia TAE (Local Crime Unit) is investigating the case, but the suspect is not cooperating with the authorities.

Investigators believe the suspect was smuggling migrants from the occupied territories through **checkpoints** for a fee, earning thousands of euros. Increased security measures at the checkpoints contributed to his detection and arrest.

The origin of the 7,500 euros and 15,475 Turkish lira found in the 57-year-old's possession is also under investigation. Both defendants face **serious charges**, including migrant smuggling, conspiracy, and assault on police officers.

The Nicosia TAE continues its investigations.