It appears that Indians have set up a well-organized operation across Cyprus involving the import and sale of opium-containing dried poppy capsules.

Yesterday, following coordinated operations in Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, the Drug Enforcement Agency (YKAN) seized another 20 kilograms of the narcotic substance, made four new arrests, and re-arrested one suspect.

“We had seized 30 kilograms as of yesterday; with yesterday’s operation, we exceeded approximately 21 kilograms,” said ^{Christos Andreou, Commander of YKAN.}

The YKAN re-arrested a 22-year-old Limassol resident who received a package containing nearly 7.5 kilograms of poppy seeds.

Two other arrests were made of a 20-year-old and a 23-year-old, who were found to be in possession of nearly 3 kilograms of the same drug.

A 27-year-old Nicosia resident was arrested after ordering more than 2.5 kilograms.

Read more: PHOTO: Another 6.5 kilograms of dried poppy bulbs found; three people arrested

A 27-year-old man from the Larnaca district was also arrested for importing more than 6 kilograms of dried poppy pods. The suspects were remanded for 8 days in 4 separate proceedings before three courts.

Two are wanted

As part of the operation, the Drug Enforcement Agency (YKAN) located two separate packages containing nearly 2 kilograms, for which two individuals are being sought.

Some are cooperating

According to information obtained by Alpha, of the ten arrests made so far, some are not cooperating, while those who have admitted to the charges stated that they imported the drugs for resale.

“These individuals are of a specific nationality, and it appears that in their country, this practice is widespread… let’s hope it doesn’t spread to the rest of the world,” said ^{Christos Andreou, Commander of YKAN.}

YKAN members are on full alert, as it appears that additional quantities of the illegal substance are on their way.

Watch Erika Kavazi’s report