Akpınar: Uncontrolled Areas Have Emerged in Mountainous and Forested Areas

Akpınar called for a “Dark Spots and Risk Areas Map” to be created across the TRNC, starting with Kyrenia, and for preventive measures such as lighting, cameras, physical barriers and access controls to be introduced where necessary.

In a written statement, Akpınar said the Police General Directorate, municipalities, district governor’s offices, the Environmental Protection Department and other relevant public institutions should begin coordinated work.

He said areas outside public oversight in various parts of the country, particularly in Kyrenia, “should no longer be ignored.”

Akpınar said observations and complaints about uncontrolled areas in mountainous and forested locations, unused or unfinished construction sites, abandoned buildings and secluded areas had increased.

He warned that such areas could pose risks not only in terms of environmental pollution but also alcohol and drug use, abuse, prostitution and other criminal activities.

Akpınar said these uncontrolled areas should be systematically identified and that the work should become part of an ongoing public security policy.

He stressed the need for an approach focused on eliminating risks before crimes occur, particularly to protect young people from drugs, abuse and organised crime.

Akpınar also proposed establishing a reporting hotline to involve citizens in the process, and said abandoned and unfinished construction sites should be registered and areas posing risks to public safety should be monitored.

Describing Kyrenia as a city of tourism, education and living, Akpınar said: “The TRNC cannot maintain its claim to be a safe country through words alone. This must be felt on the streets, in neighbourhoods, in the mountains, along the coast and in every abandoned building. The state must demonstrate its strength.”