Lebanese authorities intercept human smuggling operation targeting Cyprus

On October 6, 2026, the Lebanese Internal Security Forces intercepted an illegal operation aimed at smuggling Syrian nationals from Lebanon to Cyprus. The intervention took place in the Al-Aboudiya area, where authorities raided a residential premise and arrested ten individuals, including the owner of the property, a Syrian national born in 1986 identified by the initials M.M.

Investigations revealed that the group had been awaiting sea transport to Cyprus. Two organizers, reported to be one Lebanese and one Syrian national, had allegedly demanded a payment of 5,000 dollars per person for the crossing. Intelligence gathered by specialized units of the Information Branch allowed the security forces to monitor the site and carry out the raid before the planned maritime departure could occur. During interrogation, the detained individuals confessed to the details of the arrangement and the fees involved. The Lebanese Armed Forces oversaw the release of the information regarding the operation, which marks a significant effort by regional authorities to dismantle human trafficking networks operating along the coast.