ANNEX A: The State of Narcotics in Northern Cyprus: Changes and Trends

Abstract

This chapter examines trends in substance-use-related crimes and suspects in Northern Cyprus over a three-year period from 2021 and 2023. The analysis of data gathered from the Northern Cyprus Police reveals fluctuations in the number of cases and suspects, with a significant increase in cases in 2023. Despite variations, analysis of data suggests that, males found to be the primary suspects however the involvement of women is also noteworthy. Evaluation made by age group indicates higher substance-use-related crime rates among younger and middle-aged individuals. Furthermore, drug types and quantities vary by region, making targeted interventions a must and necessary. The data also reveals changing patterns by citizenship status, mainly among Turkish and dual citizens, suggesting cross-border dimensions to drug trafficking. To combat this substance-use-related crime effectively, gender-focused interventions are necessary. As a recommendation, enhancing prosecutorial and investigative processes, developing gender-focused approaches and strengthening cross-border cooperation will help to combat substance misuse and crimes related to it.

Keywords: Drug-related crimes, trends, suspects, citizenship, gender, cross-border cooperation, policy recommendations

Introduction

Over the course of a three-year period, there have been substantial alterations in the number of narcotic-related cases and suspects in Northern Cyprus.

This trend exhibited a total of 245 cases in the year 2021 and subsequently declined to 217 cases in 2022. However, it experienced a significant increase to 286 cases in the first ten months of 2023.

The presented data indicates a slight reduction in the number of individuals, from 363 to 323 between 2021 and 2022. However, the results then remained relatively constant at approximately 326 in 2023. Thus, the complex nature of this issue should be highlighted as this situation is further complicated with the involvement of diverse nationalities such as locals and dual citizens.

The gender distribution was predominantly consisted of males; however, it is crucial to acknowledge that females were also notably represented. According to the demographic data, it is demonstrated that the younger and middle-aged populations are more frequently impacted by narcotics issues as these results provide essential insights for developing preventative strategies to combat narcotic issues.

The analysis of narcotic data gathered from the Northern Cyprus Police which was examined with the special permission granted to Dr. Zafer Bekiroğulları.

The research spans from 2021 and 2023 and assesses multiple factors including genders, nationalities, age distributions, crime incidents, suspect counts and drug types and quantities. By adopting a comprehensive approach, the study safeguards data confidentiality and adheres to ethical requirements, with the main goal of providing trustworthy results.

Findings and Analysis

Table 1 indicates that there is a substantial increase in the cases in 2023 when compared to 2022, however, the number of suspects remained relatively consistent, suggesting there is an ongoing difficulty in tackling narcotic-related challenges in Northern Cyprus.

Table 2 indicates that the involvement of individuals from foreign countries in criminal activities declines however, the rates for Turkish and dual citizens (Northern Cyprus – Türkiye) surged.

Table 3 indicates that the number of male suspects is disproportionately greater than the number of female suspects whereas it is worth mentioning that by the year 2023, the number of female suspects has also surged.

Table 4 translated into English while maintaining contextual explanation and displays the annual distribution of the number of defendants categorized by age group.

This data provides significant differences among the various age groups. Notably, the 22-28 age bracket clearly indicates the highest percentage over the years. This group found to display the highest crime rate of 40.22% in 2021, 43.65% in 2022, and 37.12% in 2023. Moreover, the 19-21 age group bracket exhibits substantial rates, suggesting that it is an important demographic in terms of crime propensity, particularly in 2022 and 2023.

Examining different age groups, it is clear to mention that those between the ages of 0-16 had the lowest percentages, whereas the 33-38 and 39-43 age groups showed significant variations in crime rates.

Furthermore, it is also indicated in this data that individuals aged between 19 and 28 are more likely to engage in criminal activity than those in other age groups. This finding emphasizes the need for tailored programs and policies especially when designing strategies to prevent and intervene in crime rates (Resnicow et al., 2000). Moreover, the lowest crime rates that has been observed in those under 16 may suggest that preventive measures and educational initiatives could be beneficial (Spoth et al., 2008).

Outcomes

Discussion

This study examines recent trends in drug-related crimes and the individuals involved. The findings revealed a significant increase in the number of drug-related issues during the 2022-2023 period. The text provided suggests that there may be a rise in drug use and trafficking, which could be indicative of the increased effectiveness of legal interventions. However, this increase is not mirrored in the number of suspects, which raises questions about the efficacy of the investigation and prosecution processes. This suggests that further examination is necessary to determine the underlying causes of this discrepancy. The analysis according to citizenship status showed a decrease in the involvement of Northern Cyprus citizens in drug crimes, while an increase was observed among Turkish citizens, especially the dual citizens of Türkiye and Northern Cyprus. This may reflect the dynamics of cross-border drug trafficking and the tendencies of the different citizenship groups involved in these crimes. The sharp changes observed among dual citizens of Türkiye and the Northern Cyprus necessitate a thorough examination of the behaviours within this group. A gender-based analysis revealed a notable increase in the proportion of female suspects. This finding points to an increase in the number of women involved in drug crimes and underscores the importance of further research on the relationships between gender roles and drug use/criminality. The role of women in drug trafficking merits a comprehensive examination in order to fully comprehend the underlying causes and implications of any emerging gender dynamics in this area. The potential for shifting gender dynamics suggests the need for a thorough review of this phenomenon.

Conclusion

Several recommendations can be listed regarding trends in substance use related crimes and combat drug use.

References

• Anker, J. J., & Carroll, M. E. (2010). Females Are More Vulnerable to Drug Abuse than Males: Evidence from Preclinical Studies and the Role of Ovarian Hormones. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, 73–96. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Becker, J. B., & Hu, M. (2008). Sex differences in drug abuse. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 29(1), 36–47. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Daglioglu, N., Guzel, E. Y., Atasoy, A., & Gören, İ. E. (2020). Comparison of community illicit drug use in 11 cities of Türkiye through wastewater-based epidemiology. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 28(12), 15076–15089. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Fattore, L., Altea, S., & Fratta, W. (2008). Sex differences in drug addiction: A review of animal and human studies. Women’s Health, 4(1), 51–65. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Fattore, L. (2012). Considering gender in cannabinoid research: A step towards personalized treatment of marijuana addicts. Drug Testing and Analysis, 5(1), 57–61. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Fuentes, J. R., & Kelly, R. J. (1999). Drug supply and demand. Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice, 15(4), 328–351. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Greenfield, S. F., Trucco, E. M., McHugh, R. K., Lincoln, M., & Gallop, R. J. (2007). The Women’s Recovery Group Study: A Stage I trial of women-focused group therapy for substance use disorders versus mixed-gender group drug counseling. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 90(1), 39–47. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Hellawell, K. (1995). The role of law enforcement in minimizing the harm resulting from illicit drugs. Drug and Alcohol Review, 14(3), 317–322. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Johnstone, S., Dela Cruz, G. A., Kalb, N., Tyagi, S. V., Potenza, M. N., George, T. P., & Castle, D. J. (2022). A systematic review of gender-responsive and integrated substance use disorder treatment programs for women with co-occurring disorders. The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 49(1), 21–42. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Naayif, A. (2023). A conceptual model to analyze the effectiveness of international cooperation between organizations in combating illicit drug trafficking across borders. Humanities and Social Sciences Quarterly, 30(3), 49–59. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref

• Resnicow, K., Soler, R., Braithwaite, R. L., Ahluwalia, J. S., & Butler, J. (2000). Cultural sensitivity in substance use prevention. Experts@Minnesota. https://experts.umn.edu/en/publications/cultural-sensitivity-in-substance -use-prevention

• Spoth, R. L., Randall, G. K., Trudeau, L., Shin, C., & Redmond, C. (2008). Substance use outcomes 5½ years past baseline for partnership-based, family-school preventive interventions. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 96(1–2), 57–68. DOI:

  Google Scholar

  Crossref