Turkish national wanted for fraud arrested in Larnaca

Hakan Erkan, a 36-year-old Turkish national, was arrested in Larnaca on 7 April for illegal entry and stay in the Republic of Cyprus. Erkan is wanted in Turkey on at least nine criminal counts, including fraud, threats, and insults. Reports indicate he previously served prison sentences for fraud-related offenses. He allegedly operated as a 'metaphysical healer' on social media, exploiting victims' religious beliefs to solicit money. Turkish-Cypriot press reports from February suggested he had fled to the occupied north of Cyprus before crossing into the Republic via an unmonitored point. The Cyprus Police confirmed he is in custody and deportation proceedings are underway. As Turkey does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, officials expect his deportation to be facilitated through another EU country, likely Greece.