Murder suspect Mohammed Salman, who was thought to have murdered 53-year-old art teacher Hasan Işık Özgöçmen, has confessed to the murder.
Salman was part of a prisoner exchange at the Ledra Palace border several days ago. The exchange had been negotiated by the UN.
Police testified at a hearing in Iskele court on Monday. Two people walking their dog discovered Özgöçmen’s body on Long Beach, Iskele on 30 September, 2018.
Police have acquired new details from his confession. One day after the murder, Salman said that he hid in his own home and admitted that he had crossed illegally to South Cyprus on 30 September. Police said they interviewed 15 people during his three-day detention period, and they were provided with testimony from seven. Salman also provided details of how he killed the victim.
Inspector Erdim Kara, said that the suspect’s home in Nicosia will be searched, there are a number of statements to be taken and Salman’s state of mental health will be assessed.
Blood samples and DNA taken from his clothing will be sent to Turkey for analysis.
Salman has been remanded in custody pending further investigations.
Yeni Duzen
