Simon Aykut, a Turkish-Jewish businessman arrested in early June on charges related to property usurpation in Noth Cyprus, will remain in custody until September 27, the Nicosia Criminal Court ruled on Wednesday.
The defense had requested Aykut’s release, citing objections over the presumed connection between Aykut and the companies allegedly involved in the illegal development of land, as well as the defendant’s health issues and detention conditions.
However, the court denied the request, citing a fleeing from justice and the seriousness of the charges, which could result in a substantial penalty.
The court also noted that the prosecution is set to respond to the defense’s pretrial objections on September 27, with the defense arguing that the Criminal Court lacks jurisdiction to hear the case, referencing public international law and customary law.
