A Turkish Cypriot “military court” conducted a 25-minute site inspection and attempted reconstruction at the Strovilia checkpoint on Friday afternoon, examining the case of five Greek Cypriots charged with alleged illegal entry into a purported military restricted zone.

The on-site investigation occurred following the “court’s” acceptance of a prosecution request. Defence lawyers had objected to the procedure, arguing that 40 days had elapsed since the incident, and that changing conditions, including lighting, weather, and spatial arrangements, suggested the move represented an attempt to cover upgaps in the initial investigation.

During the inspection, “court representatives”, prosecution officials, defence lawyers and the five accused Greek Cypriots, who were handcuffed, travelled to the checkpoint. The group examined the area searching for signs indicating “military zone” designations.

Checkpoint facilities examined

The inspection team entered and examined the control booth, where camera positions were assessed. According to reports, the cameras were allegedly not functioning at the time of the incident.

All parties subsequently moved to examine the location where the defendants’ vehicle is being held. Although reconstruction plans included having the Greek Cypriots re-enter the vehicle, this proved impossible due to the car’s deteriorated condition.

Defence counsel raised objections as the vehicle, after 40 days of outdoor storage, was covered with dust and mud to the extent that the interior was not visible. The “court” accepted the objection and the accused did not board the vehicle.

The trial is scheduled to resume on Friday morning with testimony from the control booth employee who was present during the incident.

The five Greek Cypriots face charges related to the alleged unauthorised entry into “a military restricted area”.