Alexey Shokpa, a Russian national captured in the Esentepe region near Girne, has been sent to prison. Shokpa is wanted under a Red Notice as the main suspect in the murder of Vangelis Zampounis, a member of the ‘Greek Mafia’, which took place in Athens, Greece on January 14, 2024.
The 43-year-old Shokpa was apprehended on August 24, 2026, by police following a secret tip-off at his address in Esentepe. The operation revealed that the suspect had been residing in Cyprus illegally for 389 days. It was stated that he should be held in custody due to his illegal status in the country.
When brought before the court, Shokpa faced charges including ‘violating a military prohibited zone and illegal residence’. At the hearing held at the military court in Nicosia, his request for release was denied, and he was ordered to remain in custody. It was announced that the suspect could be held in prison for a maximum of 35 days.
Police alleged that after questioning Shokpa, he secretly crossed over to Southern Cyprus from the military prohibited area around Ercan Airport and returned to Cyprus from the same area in July 2026. The operation, prompted by the alert informing the police, revealed a significant concern for security on the island.
Shokpa’s legal status is now under review, and the extradition process has been initiated. There is keen anticipation regarding the steps to be taken after the completion of the court proceedings before he is extradited to his home country.
Source: www.diyaloggazetesi.com
