Lefkoşa and İskele: Police Inspections — 13 Detained, Over 550 Drivers Penalized

On February 18, 2026, from 20:00 to 24:00, simultaneous public order and traffic inspections were conducted in Northern Cyprus within the jurisdictions of the Lefkoşa and İskele police departments. 13 people were detained, over 550 drivers were penalized, and 57 vehicles were banned from traffic.

In Lefkoşa, entertainment venues, alcohol retailers, night clubs, coffee shops, workers' dormitories, and crowded public areas were inspected. 10 individuals were detained for residing in the country without a permit.

As part of the traffic enforcement in Lefkoşa, 1,642 drivers were checked. 332 were penalized for various violations: speeding — 135, driving under the influence — 2, driving without a license and insurance — 1, without insurance — 2, mobile phone use while driving — 9, not wearing a seatbelt — 10, no vehicle inspection (MOT) — 11, no road tax — 23, running a red light — 1, and other offenses — 138. 27 vehicles were removed from the road.

In İskele, during inspections of public places, 1 person was detained for disturbing the peace while intoxicated.

On İskele roads, 923 drivers were checked, and 218 were penalized: speeding — 110, driving under the influence — 1, without insurance — 8, no vehicle inspection (MOT) — 7, no road tax — 15, and other offenses — 77. 30 vehicles were banned from traffic.

According to police reports, the primary violations were related to speeding, lack of insurance, missing vehicle inspections, and unpaid road tax.