Large seizure of opium poppy plants in Cyprus

Authorities in Cyprus have seized over 10 kilograms of dried Papaver Somniferum (opium poppy) stalks, marking the first time such a large quantity has been imported into the country. The operation was conducted by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) in collaboration with the Customs Department. The case began at Larnaca Airport, where an intercepted package from abroad contained 30 packages weighing 6.3 kilograms. Further investigations led to the arrest of a 35-year-old man from the Nicosia district. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered an additional 22 packages weighing 4 kilograms, along with 60 grams of unidentified plant matter and equipment used for processing narcotics. The suspect’s 31-year-old wife was also arrested during the police operation. Officials state that the confiscated material could be processed to produce potent opioids such as morphine and codeine. Both suspects remain in custody to facilitate the investigation.