The five Greek-Cypriots were detained after visiting homes in the northern part of the island that belonged to their families but were confiscated by the occupiers. According to pro-Turkish authorities, the 'Greeks' also reportedly raised Greek-Cypriot flags. The arrests have caused significant outrage in the southern part of the island.
The Cypriot Parliament Speaker is asking her European counterpart, Roberta Metsola, for support from European institutions to promote their release and to send a message that citizens’ rights cannot be ignored.
Criticism of the actions of the northern authorities has also been voiced within European institutions. It is stated that the so-called legal system of that area is not recognized. European representatives emphasize that the situation lacks legal certainty.
Since the Turkish military intervention in 1974, the northern part has been under the de facto control of Turkey. Attempts at reunification and negotiations have yielded no results since. The conflict has resulted in a division of communities and the establishment of parallel structures. Although these operate in the north, they are not internationally recognized.