Man remanded after supermarket stabbing in northern Nicosia

Nicosia, Cyprus. A court heard on Friday that a 31-year-old man allegedly stabbed a 22-year-old woman multiple times at a supermarket in northern Nicosia after she ended their relationship. The woman, Kyrgyz national Zhanerke Abdrazakova, remains in a stable condition but her life is still considered to be in danger.

Relationship and alleged attack

A police officer told the court that the suspect and Abdrazakova had been in a relationship since January.

After learning that Abdrazakova had begun working at a nightclub, the suspect travelled to Cyprus last Thursday, the officer said. He rented a villa in the Kyrenia district and arranged for her to visit the following day.

According to the officer, Abdrazakova ended the relationship and left the villa with the assistance of her boss.

The suspect later went to Tymbou (Ercan) airport on Monday intending to return to Turkey, his country of origin. However, after learning that Abdrazakova was not working that day and was shopping, he cancelled his ticket and travelled to the area, the court heard.

The officer said the man found Abdrazakova, bought a knife from a local shop and followed her to the Metropol supermarket in Taskinkoy, where he allegedly stabbed her before stabbing himself.

Investigation and court proceedings

Abdrazakova underwent a second operation on Wednesday. Police said she is stable, although her condition remains life-threatening.

More than 30 statements have been taken during the investigation, while about 10 further witnesses are expected to provide statements in the coming days.

Police requested that the suspect’s remand be extended by seven days.

Defence claims

The suspect’s lawyer told the court that Abdrazakova had allegedly extorted 1.5 million TL, equivalent to €27,228, from his client through threats, and said the allegation should be investigated.

The lawyer also said the suspect had been receiving treatment at a psychiatric centre in Istanbul and was taking medication.