The Turkish Cypriot community is debating two competing theories regarding the sudden emergence and recent expansion of a pharmaceutical scandal. One segment of public opinion focuses on the possible involvement of Ankara whilst another believes that the scandal has emerged due to the ongoing turmoil and confrontation within the Turkish Cypriot right. So far, these theories remain unconfirmed. What is certain however, is that the scandal has caused considerable unrest in the occupied areas. The fact that an investigation was launched for the health sector scandal without proper preparation causes additional problems instead of defusing the situation. The scandal which reflects broader issues and contributes to the growing complexity and challenges of the occupied areas is part of a deeper systemic crisis.