Presiding Judge Füsun Cemaller alongside Senior Judge Vedia Berkut Barkın and Judge Tutku Candaş, found the accused man Antonis Artemi guilty of possessing illegal firearms and explosives. Judge Berkut Barkın underscored the serious threat posed by firearm possession, citing concerns about increasing violence and crime involving firearms.
Artemi’s defence contended that he inadvertently left two firearms in his vehicle, attributing the incident to negligence. While acknowledging Artemi’s admission of guilt and cooperation with authorities, the court emphasised the necessity of deterrent sentences to uphold public peace and security.
The incident occurred on March 26, 2024, when Artemi crossed into North Cyprus via the Metehan border checkpoint. During a routine inspection, authorities discovered ammunition and illegal firearms hidden in a black holdall in the rear seat compartment of his vehicle.
The court’s verdict underscores its commitment to ensuring public safety and preventing crimes that disturb public order.
