Cypriot police dismantle drug distribution network using social media

The Cyprus Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) has recently dismantled a trafficking network involving the sale of dried opium poppy pods. Over the past ten days, authorities seized more than 20 kilograms of the substance, including a major operation in Nicosia where 10.1 kilograms were confiscated from a 35-year-old suspect residing illegally in Cyprus since April 2022. He has been remanded in custody for eight days. A total of six suspects have been arrested across multiple operations in Limassol and Nicosia. Investigators report that the network utilized TikTok to advertise the pods, which contain morphine and codeine, at an alleged price of 25 euros per gram. While some sources suggest the pods were targeting members of the Indian and Asian communities, investigations are ongoing to determine if the substances were imported or locally sourced. Authorities initiated the broader crackdown following the interception of a suspicious package at an airport. Experts warn that the substance, which can be brewed into dangerous narcotic infusions, poses a significant risk of respiratory arrest.