Athens Murder Suspect Arrested in Esentepe

Shokpa was initially brought before court on charges related to illegal residence and entering a first-degree military restricted area. Police are investigating why he was in the TRNC and whether he was involved in any offences during his stay.

According to information published by Kamalı News Agency, Shokpa is facing preliminary charges of violating a first-degree military restricted area, entering the area unlawfully, leaving the TRNC without authorisation from the relevant authorities and residing without a valid permit.

Police: Shokpa Crossed Into the South and Returned

Police officer Berkay Sürmelioğlu told the court that Shokpa, 43, had been identified in Esentepe following information received on August 24.

Police determined that he had been residing in the TRNC without a valid permit for 389 days since July 31, 2025.

During questioning, Shokpa allegedly told police that he had secretly entered and violated a first-degree military restricted area in the Ercan Airport area before leaving the TRNC and crossing into the south.

He also allegedly stated that he had again entered the same military restricted area in July 2026 and subsequently crossed into Northern Cyprus.

Police said Shokpa was initially arrested for residing in the TRNC without a permit and that the investigation was continuing.

Authorities will investigate the purpose of his presence in the TRNC and whether he was involved in any criminal activity during his stay, police told the court.

Judge Zehra Bilgeç ordered Shokpa to remain in police custody for three days to facilitate the investigation.