Three men, Muhad Baalwan, Zakarıya Bentaher, and Osman Süleymanoğulları, who face legal proceedings following the seizure of 13 kilograms of cannabis at Ercan Airport, have appeared at court again, Kibris Postasi reports.
Fezile Kesat, representing the police, presented the case step by step. The drugs were discovered on April 28, 2024, in Baalwan’s luggage during routine screening by Customs and Revenue officers at Ercan Airport. Baalwan confessed to purchasing the drugs in Taiwan for delivery to an unknown recipient in the TRNC, in exchange for 5,000 euros.
Further investigation revealed Bentaher’s involvement in facilitating Baalwan’s journey and Süleymanoğulları’s role in organising Bentaher’s transportation. Despite attempts to erase digital evidence, authorities uncovered communication linking the suspects.
Süleymanoğulları was apprehended at his home in Famagusta. His refusal to unlock his phone hindered investigations. Meanwhile, efforts to analyse a rented vehicle associated with Bentaher suggested additional collaborators.
Requesting extended detention, the police emphasised the need for thorough investigation.
Judge Zehra Yalkut Bilgeç approved a six-day extension while the investigation continues.
