Two Turkish Cypriots, reportedly from Limassol, have been sentenced to the death penalty in Malaysia after a large quantity of drugs was found in their luggage.
Interpol notified Cypriot authorities on Monday, who in turn informed the Ministry of justice.
Muhammet Osman and Mehmet Ucaner Oktay, said to be aged 67 and 57, were arrested in November 2011 at Kuala Lumpur Airport in Malaysia after a flight from Dubai where the illegal substances were found. They have been in prison since.
The ministry of foreign affairs said they had since taken action helping them pay their legal expenses and having discussions with the Prime Minister and minister of foreign affairs in Malaysia through diplomatic officials.
A United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from New Delhi visited the country six times to meet with local officials over the case and gave financial assistance to Osman and Oktay for any of their needs.
Officials said Osman and Oktay thanked the Cyprus government in March for the help and support they received.
The court decision, taken on April 15, ruled they will be hanged for possession and drug trafficking. The death sentence is mandatory in Malaysia for those found guilty of drugs trafficking.
Cyprus Mail