A Greek mother was arrested in Turkey during a visit to Istanbul when a simple misunderstanding turned into a nightmarish ordeal that left her waiting in legal limbo in the neighboring country.

The terrifying experience, still ongoing for the mother who is in Istanbul (Constantinople) pending legal proceedings, unfolded last Friday when 50-year-old Agathi Markopoulou, her 22-year-old daughter, and a friend were shopping for headscarves to visit the Hagia Sophia.

During the visit, Markopoulou accidentally placed the shopkeeper’s mobile phone in her bag, triggering a legal nightmare for the family.

The three women were arrested and taken into custody, where they spent the night sleeping on the floor, uncertain of their fate. The 22-year-old daughter was later transferred to a migrant detention center (hotspot) and held for three days before being deported from Turkey. Her mother, unaware of her daughter’s situation, was left behind.

Markopoulou has since been released but remains stranded in Turkey, awaiting trial—a process that could take months. Her husband called for the Greek government to intervene, urging authorities to secure her safe return to Greece with a guarantee of release.

The legal troubles of the woman stranded in Turkey following the mishap may finally see some resolution. The Turkish businessman involved in the incident has withdrawn his complaint, stating in the case file that he believes the situation was a mistake—a conclusion supported by surveillance footage. Despite this, the woman, who also faces health issues, remains in Turkey awaiting trial, while her husband, Gavriil Tsountanis, pleads for Greek authorities to act.

“We are living our own ‘Midnight Express.’ You go on a three-day vacation to a country and receive this kind of treatment? What did she do? It was a mistake. If it was something truly criminal, would she never see the light of day again? I want my voice to be heard; I want Greece to take action,” Tsountanis said, expressing his frustration.

Speaking to Nea Kriti, the Cretan woman described her ordeal and challenges as her stay in Turkey appears likely to be extended.

“Today, I went to the Embassy again, intending to pay bail to return when my court date is set. After four hours without a response, I went back. They told me it’s possible, but first, a court date must be assigned. Once we know which judge will handle my case, we can request bail. My lawyer said we might have news next week. For now, my stay in Turkey is extended. I am terrified because I feel I will be stuck here for a very long time if my request is not approved.”

The uncertainty has taken a toll on her and her family, who hope for swift mediation by the Greek authorities to bring her back home.