The Custodian of Turkish Cypriot Properties, operating under the Interior Ministry of the Republic of Cyprus, has recorded a notable increase over the past three years in compensation claims filed by Turkish Cypriots whose properties in the south have been used or expropriated by Greek Cypriots. The Cypriot newspaper Fileleftheros reported the issue under the headline "Turkish Cypriot Properties a Headache for the Interior Ministry."
In a note submitted to parliamentary officials, the Custodian outlined its risk assessment using a colour-coded framework. Compensation claims stemming from expropriations, the rights and potential claims of Turkish Cypriot beneficiaries, and judicial or legislative developments were all flagged in red as high-priority risks. Medium-level risks were marked orange, while lower-risk factors were indicated in green.
Among the additional risk factors cited were rising maintenance and repair costs for buildings under the Custodian's management and delays in reforms and projects dependent on third parties. The Interior Ministry also expressed concern over the potential for structural failures in deteriorating buildings, which could result in injuries or fatalities.
The Custodian of Turkish Cypriot Properties has administered assets belonging to Turkish Cypriots in the south since 1974. The surge in compensation applications has renewed debate over the administrative and financial sustainability of the current management framework.
