Oğuz: Lack of Surveillance Authority Hampers Fight Against Organised Crime

Speaking on the Sabah Postası programme broadcast by Kıbrıs Postası, Oğuz answered questions from Gökhan Altıner, addressing a wide range of issues from public security debates and the fight against organised crime to police powers and border controls.

Emphasising that “regardless of what anyone says, Northern Cyprus is a safe country,” Oğuz said tourists, workers, residents and students choose to come precisely because of this sense of security, while stressing the need for legal reforms to enable security forces to operate more effectively.

“Regardless Of What Anyone Says, Northern Cyprus Is A Safe Country”

Beginning his remarks by referencing Dr Fazıl Küçük, Oğuz addressed ongoing public debates about security. He underlined that crime exists everywhere in the world and said Northern Cyprus should not be portrayed negatively while maintaining public safety. Oğuz praised security forces for their dedicated work and said measures are continually adapted to evolving types of crime.

He noted close cooperation with Turkey in combating cybercrime and organised crime, pointing out that internationally wanted criminals sought by Interpol may also be present in the country.

Lack Of “Technical Surveillance” Authority Makes It Difficult To Expose Organised Crime

Stressing the importance of preventive security policies, Oğuz said the Police Force’s main expectation from the government is the removal of legal obstacles. He explained that under existing legislation, police do not have technical surveillance authority, making it difficult to fully expose organised crime networks.

Oğuz said the Police Force is seeking enhanced effectiveness in preventive measures and rapid access to criminal activity. He added that Prime Minister Ünal Üstel has made the necessary notifications in this regard and that the process is ongoing.

5,230 People Denied Entry In 2025

Referring to recent incidents that caused public unease, Oğuz said their impact felt greater due to the country’s small size and wished those affected well. He stated that police are working intensively on consecutive incidents and that investigations are being conducted in coordination with Turkey.

Oğuz said the organised crime group behind these incidents is also active in Turkey, noting that operations were recently carried out across 22 provinces there. Following Prime Minister Üstel’s meeting with Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, a special unit was established and additional measures were introduced.

Since the unit’s establishment two months ago, around 1,000 people seeking entry to the country have been interviewed, with approximately 100 denied entry. Oğuz said that in total, 5,230 people were refused entry in 2025.

“These Laws Exist In Every Country—Unfortunately Not Here”

Oğuz said some of those denied entry may be members of organised crime groups and stressed that close communication with Turkey continues. He said police have achieved significant success despite legal limitations, adding that their effectiveness would increase further once the necessary laws are enacted.

Addressing concerns about individual rights and freedoms raised during discussions of these laws, Oğuz said similar legislation exists in almost every country, but not in Northern Cyprus. He added that the government, police and security forces are doing everything possible and that new measures will also enhance security at ports.

“Northern Cyprus Is A Brand; People Come Because It Is Safe”

Oğuz said police are working to prevent the illegal entry of weapons and that further measures are needed. He noted that systems such as vehicle X-ray scanners planned for Kyrenia Harbour should perhaps have been implemented decades ago.

Stressing that all necessary measures will be taken without disturbing public peace, Oğuz said Northern Cyprus is a brand whose security and reputation concern everyone. He reiterated that people come as tourists, residents, workers and students because the country is safe, adding that efforts to strengthen police personnel and infrastructure are continuing.