Appeals court upholds 14-year prison sentence for drug trafficking

On May 29, 2026, the Cyprus Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal filed by a 26-year-old man, upholding his 14-year prison sentence for drug trafficking. The case originated from a 2023 operation by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) in Limassol, which resulted in the discovery of 32.26 kilograms of narcotics, specifically 25.8 kilograms of cannabis and 6.46 kilograms of cannabis resin. Two individuals were initially convicted by the Limassol Assize Court after pleading guilty to conspiracy and possession with intent to supply. The appellant argued that his role was secondary to his co-defendant, cited his youth as a mitigating factor, and claimed the sentence was excessive. The Court of Appeal rejected these arguments, concluding that the original sentence was justified by the facts and the significant level of the defendant's participation. The court emphasized the severity of the offense, confirming the sentences for both defendants remain in effect.