A sharp increase in crimes related to drugs and weapons has been recorded in Northern Cyprus

In Northern Cyprus, over the past three years, the number of serious crimes has significantly increased, especially those connected with drugs, weapons, violence, and theft. This is confirmed by data from criminal court reports.

According to statistics, drug-related cases show the most alarming trend. While in 2022 courts reviewed 323 such cases, in 2024 the number rose to 487, representing an increase of more than 50 percent. These cases include possession, distribution, transportation, and cultivation of narcotic substances.

The number of crimes related to weapons has also grown significantly. In 2022, 67 cases of illegal possession and use of weapons were recorded, and in 2024 the figure rose to 76. At the same time, in 2023 there was a temporary decrease to 40 cases.

An increase has also been observed in violence-related cases. In 2022, courts reviewed 62 cases involving assaults, threats, and serious bodily harm, while in 2024 the number reached 84, reflecting a 35 percent increase.

In addition, the number of investigations into theft and forgery of documents has risen. Two years ago there were 96 such cases, but in 2024 the number reached 121 — an increase of 26 percent.

The total number of cases reviewed by courts on serious crimes is also growing. In 2022 there were 966, in 2023 — 1,093, and in 2024 — 1,151. Of these, 549 cases were completed, 80 were dismissed, 92 were transferred to lower courts, and 430 remained pending and were carried over to 2025.

According to experts, such a sharp increase in drug crimes and cases related to violence and weapons indicates a serious threat to public safety and requires additional measures at the state level.