drug bust — The Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) has arrested two Greeks and two Bulgarians in connection with a significant drug bust that occurred today, Saturday, involving a container loaded onto a truck that was en route from Limassol port to Paphos.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
The operation was the culmination of careful surveillance, as the container had been monitored for several days. Authorities confirmed that the successful execution of the operation was nearly compromised by a customs officers’ strike. However, the drugs were intercepted just in time, preventing their distribution.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Minister of Justice and Public Order, Marios Hartsiotis, expressed his satisfaction with YKAN’s efforts, stating, “Our coordinated operations will continue with undiminished intensity to find the death merchants.” His comments reflect the government’s commitment to tackling drug-related crimes.
This year has seen a dramatic increase in drug seizures, with the total quantity of cannabis found approaching 800 kg, marking a record high. So far, 775 kg has been confiscated, surpassing previous years—617 kg in 2024 and 544 kg in 2023. In addition to cannabis, today’s operation also recovered five kg of cocaine, bringing the total for the year to 47 kg, which is considerably higher than the 54 kg seized last year and the 24.7 kg in 2023.
The uptick in drug seizures can be attributed to the heightened efforts by the police unit, which have included targeted operations and improved data analysis. This proactive approach has played a crucial role in dismantling drug syndicates operating in the region.
