Police arrest 22-year-old for migrant smuggling in Cyprus

On the night of October 18, 2026, members of the Police Aliens and Immigration Unit (YAM) in the Republic of Cyprus apprehended eight individuals who had illegally crossed into government-controlled areas from non-controlled zones. Following further investigations, authorities identified and arrested a 22-year-old man suspected of facilitating the illegal entry and transit of these migrants.

Upon his arrest, it was determined that the suspect was also residing illegally in the Republic of Cyprus. He was subsequently re-arrested on the morning of October 19 under a judicial warrant to facilitate ongoing investigations into the smuggling operation. The Nicosia District Court has issued an eight-day detention order against the suspect, while the eight migrants were transferred to the Pournara reception center for processing.