Today’s press conference held by the Drug Enforcement Agency (YKAN) as well as new trends observed in the illicit drug market, were highlighted at today’s press conference held by the Cyprus Police, during which the report for the first half of 2026 was presented.

The fight against drugs remains one of the Police’s top priorities, with the data reflecting, on the one hand, increased efforts to traffic drugs and, on the other hand, the intensive efforts of the Drug Enforcement Unit (YKAN) and the Police in general to identify and dismantle criminal networks.

According to the data presented, a particularly significant increase was recorded in cocaine seizures, which totaled 71.4 kilograms compared to 30.2 kilograms during the corresponding period of 2025, marking an increase of over 130%. An increase was also observed in methamphetamine, as seizures exceeded 2.3 kilograms, confirming the presence of potent synthetic drugs on the Cypriot market. Particularly striking is the increase in cannabis resin, where seizures rose from approximately half a kilogram in 2025 to over 47.5 kilograms in 2026. At the same time, although cannabis quantities appear to have decreased compared to the previous year, they remain at high levels, a fact that confirms it is the most widespread illicit drug in the country.

During the same period, a total of 539 drug cases were investigated, a figure that demonstrates the ongoing severity of the problem and the systematic efforts of law enforcement authorities.

The emergence of new narcotic substances in Cyprus is a cause for particular concern. For the first time, significant quantities of synthetic cannabinoids—including the substance MDMB-4EN-PINACA in the form of impregnated paper sheets—were detected, along with a number of Captagon tablets. At the same time, quantities of opium poppy (papaver) and Kief, a particularly potent cannabis derivative, were seized. These substances, many of which are relatively new to the European market, are considered, in many cases, to be extremely dangerous, while their effects on users’ health are not always fully known.

Indicative of the intensity of this activity is the fact that in the last few days alone, more than 30 kilograms of dried poppy bulbs and kief were seized, while in Nicosia, Limassol, and Famagusta, ten individuals were arrested and are currently in custody, with investigations ongoing.

In addition to operational actions, particular emphasis is also placed on dealing a financial blow to organized crime. The Cyprus Anti-Narcotics Agency (YKAN), in cooperation with the Cyprus Police’s Organized Crime Division (MOKAS), is conducting financial investigations to identify and seize illicit proceeds derived from drug trafficking. From 2020 through the end of 2025, assets worth more than 2.5 million euros have been frozen or confiscated, of which more than one million euros relate to 2025 alone.

As emphasized, these results are the outcome of the systematic and persistent efforts of YKAN members, who work daily under demanding conditions, confronting evolving forms of crime and new challenges.

At the same time, it was emphasized that combating the drug problem is not limited to law enforcement alone, but also includes prevention efforts, public awareness, and cooperation with other government agencies, as well as European and international organizations, with the aim of early identification and effective response to new threats.

During today’s press conference, Mr. Themistos Arnaoutis, Chief of Police, highlighted the significance of the YKAN’s operational successes and the role of the Service’s members. As he stated in his speech: “Today’s press conference is also an opportunity to publicly recognize the people behind these results. I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Director of the YKAN, Mr. Christos Andreou, as well as to all the officers and members of the Agency. Their work requires professionalism, dedication, patience, and a strong sense of duty. These successes belong first and foremost to them—and the Police leadership is proud of their work.”

In closing, the Chief noted that the Narcotics Enforcement Service is a prime example of the police force we are building: a modern, effective, outward-looking, and results-oriented police force.

The Cyprus Police is sending a message to society that the fight against drugs is a collective and ongoing effort. The active participation of citizens, families, the educational community, and local communities is crucial to creating a safe environment, especially for young people.

Finally, it is reaffirmed that the YKAN will continue its operations with the same determination to detect and combat drug trafficking, with the primary goal of protecting society and, in particular, the younger generation.

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