As part of the ongoing efforts of the Drug Enforcement Agency (YKAN) to detect and seize narcotics being imported or attempted to be imported into the Republic of Cyprus, targeted operations were carried out yesterday in the districts of Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca.

During the operations, a total quantity of approximately 20 kilograms and 780 grams of dried poppy capsules of the species Papaver somniferum (Papaver somniferum).

As part of yesterday’s operations, five men aged 20, 22, 23, 27, and 28 were arrested. It should be noted that one of the arrested men, aged 22, was already in custody in connection with another similar case.

Subsequent investigations revealed that two of the suspects, aged 27 and 28, were residing illegally in the Republic of Cyprus.

It should be noted that, as part of YKAN operations aimed at locating and seizing dried poppy capsules of the species “Mikon” or “Hypnotica,” a total of over 52 kilograms of this narcotic substance have been identified and seized to date, while five individuals have been arrested and are already in custody.

The operational activities and targeted actions of the Drug Enforcement Agency to detect and combat the importation, trafficking, and sale of narcotics will continue with undiminished intensity throughout Cyprus.

The investigation is ongoing by the Drug Enforcement Agency.