Doctor arrested at Larnaca airport over illegal medical supplies

A visiting doctor was arrested at Larnaca airport on October 24 after customs officials discovered unauthorized pharmaceutical products in his luggage. The individual, who had traveled from Greece to perform cosmetic injections, was intercepted following intelligence gathered by the Pharmaceutical Services, which had monitored online advertisements promoting his upcoming professional services at a private hospital in Cyprus.

Upon inspection, authorities found five vials of injectable cosmetic substances and one vial of anesthetic solution. These products lacked proper labeling and instructions in Greek or English, failing to meet local regulatory standards. The items were confiscated, and the suspect remains in custody as authorities investigate the origin of the supplies and whether their importation was intended for professional medical practice. Officials clarified that holding medical credentials does not exempt individuals from strict national pharmaceutical import regulations.

Investigation into the case is ongoing, with involvement from the Drug Law Enforcement Unit and the Organized Crime Prosecution Department. Authorities are currently determining the legality of the import and the intended purpose of these substances, emphasizing that the products were not authorized for use within the Republic of Cyprus.