Customs authorities seize illicit refrigerant gas at Agios Dometios checkpoint

On May 25, 2026, customs officers at the Agios Dometios crossing point intercepted a commercial vehicle driven by a 36-year-old Turkish Cypriot. During a routine check, officials discovered 40 cylinders of refrigerant gas in the vehicle. The driver was unable to provide the necessary documentation for the goods. Authorities suspected that the cylinders originated from Turkey, violating existing regulations. Consequently, both the refrigerant gas and the vehicle were confiscated by the customs department. The individual was arrested following the discovery. The driver was later released after agreeing to an out-of-court settlement and paying a fine of €15,000. The seized goods are currently held in a Nicosia customs warehouse pending recycling or destruction.