Arıklı: Arrest Warrants Will Be Issued for Those Using Turkish-Owned Properties in the South

Speaking to Genç TV, Arıklı stated that arrest warrants will be issued for those using Turkish-owned properties in the south, whether rented or otherwise, and that initiatives will be launched through Turkey to issue international arrest warrants.

Arıklı, who also serves as Minister of Public Works and Transport, noted that border crossings between the north and south could be restricted and claimed that presidential elections are not currently a priority for the public.

"Ersin Tatar Will Soon Announce His Manifesto and Join the Campaign"

Addressing the upcoming presidential election, Arıklı said that while the campaign process started early, President Ersin Tatar had already been introduced to the public with a strong organizational effort. “Mr. Ersin Tatar will announce his manifesto in the coming days, and we will all take to the field together,” he said.

"Presidential Election Is Not the Public's Current Priority"

Arıklı emphasized that the election atmosphere has yet to resonate with the public. “We saw this during visits over the holiday. People say it’s too early. The presidential election is not a current priority for the public,” he stated.

"We Will Issue Arrest Warrants for Those Using Turkish Properties in the South"

Referring to arrest warrants issued in the Republic of Cyprus over Greek Cypriot property claims in the north, Arıklı announced that retaliatory measures will be implemented. “One of the measures we will take is to issue arrest warrants for those using Turkish-owned properties in the south, whether rented or otherwise,” he said.

"July Talks Will Be Nothing More Than a Touristic Trip"

Arıklı remarked that cross-community interactions and economic balance, which had previously fostered peaceful coexistence, are gradually disappearing. He indicated that the steps to be taken by the Turkish Cypriot side will be firmer. “Of course, these steps will have consequences, but no one will be able to blame us. No one will be able to question the opening of Varosha either,” he stated. He added that following recent arrests in the south, the summit scheduled for July will lose its significance and resemble a touristic visit rather than a meaningful negotiation.

"Current Arrests Render New Crossing Points Pointless; Existing Ones May Be Restricted"

Referring to the decision to open two new crossing points communicated to the Republic of Cyprus through the UN, Arıklı said, “In light of these arrests, we now see that these new crossings may no longer be necessary. Even existing crossings may be restricted. We are only seeing the tip of the iceberg in terms of these sanctions. If they deepen, people will become reluctant to cross into the south. That would render the opening of new crossings meaningless,” he concluded.