A high-ranking official in the Turkish Cypriot administration is in legal trouble. Huseyin Cahitoglu is accused of serious crimes. These include money laundering, bribery, and abusing his power. He is the Undersecretary to the 'Prime Minister' Unal Ustel. Cahitoglu was kept in custody for five more days. This is because the investigation into his alleged crimes is getting bigger. These accusations are making the island's politics difficult. They suggest there might be corruption in public offices.
The investigation started because of bribery suspicions. Now, more charges have been added. These include money laundering and illegal gun possession. Local news says Cahitoglu asked for large amounts of money. This was to help with government business. A police officer said Cahitoglu is accused of taking about €220,000 and £35,000. This happened between 2022 and 2024. He allegedly did this for work in Nicosia. He is also accused of being offered a £200,000 bribe. This was to speed up illegal land deals.
This legal problem in Turkey has a connection to an international case. It involves an Iranian businessman named Behdad Jafari. He lives in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Authorities in South Cyprus wanted Jafari to be sent from France. France decided not to send him back. This happened on December 10, 2025. The French court said EU law does not apply in Northern Cyprus.
The TRNC administration is happy about this French court decision. The 'Prime Minister' said it supports their view. He said the court's decision shows EU arrest warrants are not valid there. He also said it proves the TRNC has its own rights. Local media said this proves their legal system works for property issues.
Cahitoglu's legal problems are important. Accusations of corruption can make people lose trust. The French court decision also has political meaning. It affects how the TRNC is seen internationally. The investigation into Cahitoglu continues. More news is expected soon.