Cypriot police launch nationwide operation Plegma against organised crime

On November 5, 2026, the newly formed Directorate for Combating Organised Crime (DAOE) launched a nationwide police operation codenamed 'Plegma', targeting major drug trafficking networks. The operation followed a lengthy investigation initiated in February 2026, when authorities discovered over 230 kilograms of drugs, including cannabis and cocaine, at a warehouse in Strovolos. The crackdown involved 27 simultaneous raids on residences, vehicles, and prison cells across Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Famagusta, resulting in the arrest of 26 individuals, including 25 Greek Cypriots and one Turkish national.

Authorities have frozen assets and bank accounts worth approximately 750,000 euros, along with 18 vehicles and real estate properties. Seven suspects appeared before the Nicosia District Court, where remand orders were issued for their detention to facilitate ongoing investigations into drug trafficking, possession of explosives, and money laundering. Officials, led by DAOE director Christos Andreou, stated that the evidence against the suspects includes communication logs with previously arrested individuals linked to the original February seizures. Investigators are currently focused on identifying the leaders of the network, as the operation continues to dismantle supply chains.