Upon investigation, it was discovered that they had entered the country with the intention of shooting a businessman. The two suspects Mustafa Özmen and Vural Allahverdi, were brought back to court yesterday, and an additional eight-day detention order was issued against them.
At the hearing, police officer Cemal Şanlıer gave evidence in the case. He explained that on August 14, 2024, at around 8.30pm, the vehicle driven by Mustafa Özmen, was stopped by traffic patrol officers on Sertaç Sevim Kalebey Street in Kyrenia for a routine check. Özmen was taken to the police station for driving under the influence. During a search of the vehicle, a Glock 9mm pistol and 12 live bullets were found in the glove compartment.
The police seized the gun and bullets and arrested Özmen and his passenger, Vural Allahverdi, on the spot. The investigation revealed that Allahverdi arrived in the country on August 8, and Özmen on August 14.
Officer Şanlıer stated that during the investigation, a message was found on Allahverdi’s phone requesting 20,000 TL for purchasing masks and other items for disguise. There was also a photo of a businessman’s car along with its licence plate, and a message discussing plans to shoot the businessman in the leg.
A similar message was found on Özmen’s phone, saying, “We’re following him, uncle. We’ll act when we see him, don’t worry“. The police said the suspects were taken to court, and an eight-day detention order was granted.
During a second search of the rental car, two scarves used for covering faces were found. Additionally, a person suspected of supplying the gun to the suspects in North Cyprus was identified. The suspects claimed they knew nothing about the gun, but security camera footage showed them driving around with Allahverdi holding a gun.
The police also discovered that photos and information about the businessman’s car were sent to the suspects via WhatsApp. Audio recordings were found on the suspects’ phones, and voice samples will be taken for comparison.
The investigation is still ongoing, with police reviewing security footage and examining the suspects’ phone records. The police requested an additional eight days detention for the suspects while they continue their investigation.
In court, Mustafa Özmen claimed he only came to the country as a driver and learned about the situation afterward.
After reviewing the evidence, Senior Judge Hazal Hacımulla ordered that the suspects remain in custody for a further eight days.