COVID19: Turkish Cypriots notch up 100 cases, four deaths

Turkish Cypriot authorities in the Turkish occupied north of Cyprus have reported the fourth COVID-19 related death as cases reach the 100 mark.

Monday’s death of a 54-year-old man is the first Turkish citizen to lose his life in the occupied north of Cyprus from complications caused by coronavirus.

The man, who had underlying health issues, was living in the village of Karavas in Kyrenia.

His death follows that of a 74-year-old who was the first Turkish Cypriot to die last week.

The total number of deaths in the Turkish occupied north of Cyprus has risen to four.

The two other deaths were German tourists, a 67-year-old man and an 83-year old woman.

Turkish Cypriot authorities also announced their hundredth COVID-19 case, after another person tested positive on Monday.

The case involves a staff member at a hotel where people arriving from abroad are being quarantined.

The north remains on lockdown as of 30 March until 17 April, with a blanket flight ban also in place until 30 April. The lockdown is expected to be extended.

Residents in the north are not allowed to leave their homes from 9 pm every night till 6 am – the same as the Republic.

Supermarkets close at 8 pm while other non-essential businesses are closed.

Authorities are gradually repatriating Turkish Cypriot students from Turkey, raising concerns as the country is heavily stricken by coronavirus reporting over 30,000 cases and 649 deaths.

Divided Cyprus has 762 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths.

Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci has requested medical supplies from the Cyprus government which will send protective gear and medicine.

Divided Cyprus has 762 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths.