Recent customs interceptions at Cyprus airports and border crossings

Cypriot authorities conducted a series of enforcement actions between September 10 and 21, 2026, targeting the smuggling of narcotics and illicit tobacco products. At Larnaca Airport, customs officers and the Narcotics Squad seized 5.798 kilograms of dried cannabis discovered in two packages originating from third countries on September 10 and 11. The investigation into this drug seizure is currently being handled by the Limassol division of the Narcotics Squad.

Simultaneously, customs agents successfully intercepted illicit goods at border crossings and Paphos Airport. On September 21, authorities seized 7.4 kilograms of duty-free hookah tobacco at the Deryneia crossing from a vehicle transporting an Israeli passenger, and an additional 2.4 kilograms at the Ayios Dhometios crossing. Furthermore, at Paphos Airport, two Israeli female passengers were arrested after 5,800 cigarettes (29 cartons) were found in their luggage. All apprehended individuals in the tobacco cases were released following out-of-court settlements involving fines ranging from 600 to 2,600 euros. The confiscated tobacco products are slated for destruction, while ongoing investigations are being conducted by local police and customs officials.