BBC investigation reveals fertility clinic scandal in northern Cyprus

A new investigation by the BBC has revealed that at least 30 children, primarily of British origin, may have been conceived using donor sperm or eggs different from those specifically selected by their parents. The families had chosen anonymous donors based on medical history, physical traits, education, and personality. However, suspicion arose when commercial DNA testing revealed that many of the children possessed genetic backgrounds matching Turkey or neighboring regions, rather than the intended donors.

Approximately half of these cases are linked to the Dogus IVF Centre, which has allegedly been blacklisted by the global sperm bank Cryos International since 2016. The investigation follows initial reports from March 2026 involving seven families. Concerns over malpractice in the region have been exacerbated by a separate incident in May 2026, where an individual was arrested at Ercan Airport for attempting to illegally transport human embryos. The affected families continue to demand accountability, while authorities are scrutinizing the operations of these clinics amid ongoing concerns about potential organized illicit activities in the fertility sector.