Customs seize 245kg of animal products at Ayios Dhometios crossing

On the evening of August 12, 2026, customs officials at the Ayios Dhometios crossing point intercepted a vehicle registered in the Republic of Cyprus. The car, driven by a foreign national, was found to be carrying 245 kilograms of bovine hides and offal originating from the occupied areas. The transport of such items into the government-controlled areas is strictly prohibited under the Green Line Regulation.

Following the discovery, the customs department confiscated both the animal products and the vehicle used for the transport. The driver was arrested at the scene and held in custody until the following day. On August 13, the individual was released after paying a €2,000 administrative fine imposed by the Veterinary Services, along with an additional fee of €500 to the customs department to secure the return of the vehicle. The seized animal products are scheduled to be destroyed according to standard sanitary procedures.