Cyprus anti-drug unit dismantles opium poppy smuggling ring

Starting June 19, 2026, the Cyprus Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) conducted a nationwide operation that dismantled a criminal network involved in the importation and trafficking of dried opium poppy pods. Authorities seized approximately 60 kilograms of the narcotic and resolved 17 related cases. Twenty-one individuals were arrested and currently remain in custody as pre-trial detainees, while two additional suspects are being sought. Sixteen of the cases have been formally filed and referred to the Criminal Court for trial. Evidence gathered against three of the defendants indicates they allegedly imported further quantities of the substance over the previous three months, leading to additional charges. YKAN coordinated with a foreign courier company used for the shipments, which subsequently implemented measures to block future deliveries of these products to Cyprus. The operation is part of an ongoing effort to combat organized drug trafficking networks on the island.