Cyprus has recorded historic drug seizures in 2025, with cannabis and cocaine confiscations doubling compared to 2024, according to YKAN Director Christos Andreou. This surge showcases the effectiveness of targeted operations at the republic’s entry points rather than indicating an increase in drug trafficking.
Significant Increases in Drug Confiscations
From 1 January to 31 August 2025, authorities seized an impressive 613 kg of cannabis and 39.5 kg of cocaine, reflecting increases of 279 kg and 33.5 kg, respectively, over the previous year’s figures. Additionally, officers confiscated 1.5 kg of cannabis resin and discovered 50 cannabis plants during their operations.
Continuing Trends in Drug Seizures
By mid-September, the figures had risen further, with seizures reaching 640 kg of cannabis and 40 kg of cocaine. The YKAN also recorded 2 kg of cannabis resin and 50 plants during this timeframe. The eight-month period saw a total of 781 cases involving 768 suspects, nearly mirroring the 752 incidents and 768 individuals reported in 2024.
Uncovering THC-Infused Products
In a notable crackdown, YKAN officials highlighted the confiscation of 2,476 THC-containing cannabinoid products, which included an array of items such as gummies, chocolates, oils, and electronic cigarettes. These findings emerged following nationwide inspections of various businesses.
Adapting to Evolving Drug Trafficking Methods
According to Andreou, drug traffickers are continually adapting their concealment methods. Some recent cases involved narcotics hidden cleverly in cereal packaging, showcasing the lengths to which traffickers will go to evade detection.
Emerging Concerns Surrounding Captagon
Andreou expressed particular concern about Captagon, a dangerous synthetic pill that has been making waves in the regions of Syria and Lebanon, where it is often used by extremists to diminish inhibitions during criminal activities. Although Captagon has not yet been detected in Cyprus, its increasing circulation in nearby areas has prompted authorities to remain vigilant.
Financial Investigations into Organised Crime
The YKAN has also intensified its focus on the financial aspects of organised crime, conducting numerous economic investigations and freezing assets belonging to implicated individuals. Since 2020, the agency has pursued 89 financial investigations that resulted in seizures totalling €1,426,554 and forfeitures amounting to €833,783. Notably, 2025 has recorded the largest single forfeiture to date, which reached €357,383.
Addressing Drug Use Among Young People
Through its Early Intervention programme, YKAN has referred 205 individuals aged between 14 and 24 to treatment centres in 2025. This group comprised 143 users and 62 family members or relatives, reflecting a proactive approach to prevent irreversible involvement in drug use.
Andreou emphasised the connection between large quantities of drugs and organised crime, stating, “Behind large quantities of drugs lies organised crime with enormous financial benefits.” This statement underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities as they combat drug trafficking in Cyprus.
