Interpol-Wanted Suspect in Athens Murder Case Sent to Prison

The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Russian national Alexey Shokpa, was brought before the Nicosia Military Court and charged with violating and unlawfully entering a First-Degree Military Restricted Area, leaving the TRNC without permission from the relevant authorities, and residing in the TRNC without a valid permit.

Police told the court that Shokpa was found to have been residing in the TRNC without legal permission for 389 days since July 31, 2025.

During questioning, he allegedly admitted that he had secretly entered and violated the First-Degree Military Restricted Area under the jurisdiction of Ercan Airport before leaving the TRNC and crossing into the south. He also allegedly admitted that he returned to the north in July 2026 after again secretly entering the same restricted area.

Police said the suspect had appeared in court twice and been granted an additional nine days for the investigation, during which statements were taken.

The police officer told the court that the part of the investigation that could be affected by the suspect had been completed and that he had no legal status in the country.

Judge Gülay Uğur ordered Shokpa to remain in custody for a period not exceeding 35 days.