Lobby for Cyprus halts property exhibition in Surrey

A small group of members from Lobby for Cyprus successfully put an end to a property exhibition organised by UK-based Sea Terra at the Hilton hotel in Cobham, Surrey, as it would have promoted the illegal sale of stolen property in occupied northern Cyprus.

Although Sea Terra is registered in Wiltshire and has offices in Trowbridge, it is however a subsidiary of a company based in the occupied north of Cyprus that specialises in developing land in Akanthou and Ayios Amvrosios and selling them to English buyers.

Lobby for Cyprus protested outside the hotel which was filmed by the BBC. Refugees from Ayios Amvrosios and Akanthou, and other occupied villages, were interviewed and asked how they felt at seeing their land being built on by this English company and the property sold to English buyers. Not surprisingly all those interviewed re-asserted their right to return and expressed their lack of interest in compensation or property exchange. They simply wanted their property back.

Leaflets were handed out to those who appeared intent on visiting the show, which was eventually poorly attended. A second show was planned at a hotel in Farnham, Surrey and then three days in Trowbridge at the end of this week.

Lobby for Cyprus members spoke with the representatives of Sea Terra and they expressed their understanding at the frustration of the refugeess.

Nick Kounoupias, Coordinator of Lobby explained to Sea Terra that they were committing criminal offences. They were engaged in fraud and money laundering crimes. The hotel management was also advised of the criminal behaviour of Sea Terra and that they would be guilty of conspiracy to defraud if they continued with allowing them to exhibit at their hotels. Following the protest the hotel immediately stopped the exhibition.

Lobby for Cyprus will now step up its campaign to prevent the illegal exploitation of Cypriot stolen property.

For information contact Nick Kounoupias on 07768 201998 or send an email to [email protected]