The Cyprus Drug Enforcement Agency (YKAN) conducted targeted operations across Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, seizing approximately 20.78 kilograms of dried opium poppy pods (Papaver somniferum). During these coordinated raids, five men aged between 20 and 28 were arrested. Notably, one of the detained individuals was already in custody for a related case. Further investigations revealed that two of the suspects, aged 27 and 28, were residing illegally in Cyprus.

These actions form part of YKAN's ongoing efforts to curb the import and trafficking of narcotics within the country. So far, authorities have confiscated over 52 kilograms of opium poppy pods and arrested a total of nine individuals, five of whom remain held. The agency continues to intensify its nationwide anti-drug operations to combat illegal substances effectively.

Investigations related to the recent seizures and arrests are ongoing as law enforcement tightens controls on narcotics-related activities in Cyprus.