TRNC discusses revising high traffic violation fines

In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, discussions continue regarding the sharply increased fines for traffic violations introduced after amendments to the Road and Transport Offences Law were adopted in the summer of 2025. The new amounts have sparked wide public reaction and criticism from citizens and the business community.

TRNC Minister of Public Works and Transport Erhan Arıklı acknowledged that the ministry is receiving a large number of complaints, especially regarding high fines for using a mobile phone while driving. According to him, certain provisions of the law will be revised, and the penalty system will become more balanced.

“A fine of tens of thousands of liras for using a phone in the city does not always correspond to the principles of justice,” the minister noted.

Representatives of economic and professional organizations in the TRNC also believe that fines should be proportionate to the population’s income level and accompanied by improvements in road infrastructure. In their view, road safety cannot be ensured solely through high financial sanctions.