Twenty-year-old arrested at Larnaca airport over 2024 khat seizure

Cyprus police arrested a 20-year-old man at Larnaca airport on September 8, 2026, in connection with a drug trafficking case dating back to February 2024. The suspect was detained upon his arrival from abroad, following an outstanding judicial warrant issued by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN).

The investigation concerns the illegal importation of 42.95 kilograms of khat, a plant-based stimulant. The drugs were discovered on February 29, 2024, inside two unclaimed suitcases at Larnaca airport. The luggage had originally arrived on February 25, 2024, and was intercepted by YKAN and Customs officials while being processed for return to its country of origin.

Following his arrest, the suspect appeared before the Larnaca District Court on September 9, 2026. The court ordered his remand in police custody for five days as investigations into his involvement in the trafficking operation continue.