Cyprus drug enforcement unit seizes significant quantities of poppy pods
The Cyprus Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) conducted a series of operations across the districts of Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, resulting in the seizure of approximately 20.78 kilograms of dried opium poppy pods. During these operations, five men aged 20, 22, 23, 27, and 28 were arrested, with the 22-year-old already in custody for a separate case. Investigations revealed that two of the detainees, aged 27 and 28, were residing in the Republic of Cyprus illegally. In parallel, separate actions in Famagusta and Paphos involved the seizure of 6.5 kilograms of poppy-derived substances and additional arrests. Authorities report that the total volume of poppy pods seized during this wave of operations has now surpassed 52 kilograms. Estimates regarding the total number of individuals arrested vary by report, with figures ranging between nine and thirteen depending on whether previous ongoing cases are included. The Drug Law Enforcement Unit confirmed that operations aimed at curbing the illegal importation and distribution of narcotics will continue across the country.