Akpınar: “Those Who Strap a Gun to Their Waist Take Refuge in the TRNC”

“Gun Supply and Smuggling Must Be Investigated”

Akpınar stressed the need for a thorough investigation into how firearms enter the country.
“Those who strap a gun to their waist come straight to the TRNC. Those who can’t bring them in obtain them here. But from whom are they sourcing these weapons? Are they coming by sea or by truck?” he asked, highlighting the possibility of arms smuggling. Akpınar noted that currently, “there is no effective inspection, control, or deterrence.”

“This Is Not a Security Failure, It’s a State Failure”

The DP Secretary General said the issue cannot be evaluated merely as a security lapse:
“We do not see this as a security failure; it is a state failure. Organized crime, foreign-linked contract killers, and money laundering networks have been able to cross our borders easily due to the lack of preventive intelligence.”

“A National Intelligence Unit Must Be Established Immediately”

Akpınar called on government partners to urgently establish a National Intelligence Unit within a legal framework.
“The TRNC’s own national intelligence system must focus on detecting crimes before they occur, not after. This structure should operate in full coordination with the Police Directorate, the Security Forces Command, and the Ministry of Interior,” he said.

“Monitoring and Penalties Must Be Strengthened”

He added that advanced monitoring systems must be established at border crossings, ports, and land connections. Addressing the judiciary, Akpınar said, “In organized crime cases, maximum penalties should be applied to restore deterrence.”

“Financial and Digital Tracking Essential for Foreign Crime Networks”

Akpınar stressed that deportation alone is not enough; financial tracking, digital surveillance, and asset freezing mechanisms must be implemented against foreign criminal organizations. He emphasized that if these networks have links to Turkey, bilateral cooperation is required.

“The TRNC Is Not a Haven for Hitmen”

Akpınar concluded with a stern warning:
“In this country, justice is served by court decisions, not bullets. The TRNC is not a refuge for anyone, nor a sanctuary of impunity for hitmen. The government must act immediately to establish national intelligence and enforce a deterrent penalty system. Otherwise, those who remain silent in the face of these warnings will bear responsibility for any future loss of life.”

Akpınar stressed that the Democratic Party will closely monitor the process, adding, “Radical but legally compliant measures are necessary for the public’s peace and the state’s reputation.”