Northern Cyprus toughens COVID-19 measures

LEFKOSA, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on Monday toughened coronavirus restrictions, including curfews and shortening of working hours.

According to decisions taken by the Council of Ministers, a 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew is being implemented from Monday to Saturday until April 26, while a total lockdown will take effect on Sunday.

Working hours for grocery stores have also been shortened for an hour this week – markets will remain open between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Indoor and outdoor coffee houses and cafes are allowed to operate, but customers must be limited to one-third of the total capacity.

Meanwhile, mass worship in mosques and public iftars (sunset meal during Ramadan) are not allowed.

The TRNC has so far confirmed 3,913 COVID-19 cases and 24 related deaths. Vaccination drive against the disease also continues. More than 58,800 people have received their first dose, while over 48,500 have been fully vaccinated.

*Writing by Gozde Bayar in Ankara