Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Cyprus government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis said on Wednesday that the weekend attack on Turkish Cypriot man Ahmet Tan in Ayia Napa was not motivated by racial, sectarian or nationalist reasons. His remarks followed the arrest of four Swedish nationals in connection with the case.
Government response
Letymbiotis said that, based on the arrests of those considered suspects, there were no nationalist or other motives behind the attack, which the government had condemned and continued to condemn.
He said every form of violence is condemnable and added that, in the Cypriot context, the peaceful coexistence of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots had been proven in practice. He said no one should undermine this peaceful coexistence through statements or insinuations.
Reference to Cyprus issue and UN efforts
Letymbiotis said the Cyprus issue is a matter of invasion and occupation. He added that, during efforts being undertaken by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, especially at this time, public statements should be guided by how they can contribute to the climate Guterres is attempting to create.
Victim’s condition
Forty-seven-year-old Tan suffered a fractured skull and a brain haemorrhage after being attacked in Ayia Napa in the early hours of Sunday morning. Initial reports prompted fears that the attack may have been racially motivated.
Tan remains at Nicosia general hospital. Turkish Cypriot health minister Hakan Dincyurek visited him on Monday evening and said Tan had undergone two consecutive brain surgeries, remained in intensive care, and that his life was still in danger at the time of the visit.
Arrests and court appearance
Four Swedish nationals have been arrested and remanded in custody in connection with the attack. All four are expected to appear in court again on Tuesday next week.
