Cyprus drug unit reports surge in poppy pod seizures and arrests
The Cyprus Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) has conducted a series of operations resulting in multiple arrests and significant drug seizures. In the Famagusta district, a 22-year-old man was arrested following the earlier detention of two other men, aged 30 and 35, on June 25, 2026, in connection with the importation of approximately 6.05 to 6.5 kilograms of dried poppy pods found in postal parcels. All three suspects are being held under seven-day detention orders issued by the Famagusta District Court. Separately, a 38-year-old man was remanded for eight days by the Paphos District Court after being linked to a package containing 0.5 kilograms of dried poppy pods that arrived at Larnaca airport. Additional reports mention a broader investigation into an alleged opium ring, with recent police actions accounting for over 30 kilograms of poppy-derived substances seized in various operations. Meanwhile, health experts from the addiction center Kenthea have highlighted a rising trend in substance abuse and behavioral addictions among young people in Cyprus, citing data on increased levels of various narcotics found in urban wastewater.