**Captagon Drug Trafficking Surge Through North Under Investigation**
The drug squad of Cyprus, known as Ykan, is currently investigating trafficking routes through the northern part of the island that are believed to be used for smuggling the stimulant Captagon into government-controlled areas. This investigation comes as Captagon emerges as one of the most rapidly growing threats within the black market.
Ykan chief Christos Andreou spoke to the Cyprus News Agency on Wednesday, highlighting the alarming increase in Captagon seizures. So far this year, authorities have confiscated 1,194 tablets, a stark contrast to the mere 71.5 tablets seized during the entirety of last year. This significant rise has raised concerns among law enforcement regarding the prevalence of this drug in Cyprus.
“Captagon is the primary drug we have information on being smuggled in from the occupied areas,” Andreou stated. He noted that Ykan has conducted numerous patrols along the buffer zone, successfully locating large quantities of the drug during these operations.
Captagon, a potent synthetic stimulant, gained notoriety during the Syrian civil war, where it was reportedly used by various militia groups, including Islamic State fighters, to enhance endurance and suppress fatigue in combat situations. The current version of Captagon is typically produced as a counterfeit stimulant, containing amphetamine along with other chemical substances. The drug trade has become a significant source of income for criminal networks in the Middle East, with Syria identified as a major production hub prior to the fall of the Assad regime.
In addition to the rise in Captagon seizures, authorities in Cyprus have also reported an increase in cocaine trafficking. Approximately 83 kilograms of cocaine have been confiscated so far this year, compared to around 51 kilograms during the entire year of 2025. This uptick in drug seizures reflects a broader trend of escalating drug-related activities within the region.
Cannabis continues to be the most commonly seized narcotic in Cyprus, although the quantities recorded this year are notably lower than those of the previous year. Authorities have confiscated around 273 kilograms of cannabis in 2026, a significant decrease from the 810 kilograms seized throughout 2025.
Moreover, Ykan has identified a new trend involving the importation of poppy stalks, with police recording 17 cases this year. These cases have led to the arrest of 22 individuals and the seizure of 60 kilograms of the opioid. Andreou explained that these packages containing narcotics have been arriving in Cyprus from Austria through courier companies, prompting law enforcement to take action to prevent further shipments.
The drugs detected in Cyprus have been traced back to various countries, including Greece, the United States, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, and Belgium. They primarily enter the island through courier services, container shipments, and drug mules.
Andreou assured that Ykan remains committed to targeting trafficking networks, with ongoing operations focused on identifying suppliers and preventing large quantities of drugs from infiltrating the market. The rise in Captagon and other narcotics poses a significant challenge for authorities, who are working diligently to combat drug trafficking and protect public safety.
As the investigation continues, Ykan's efforts will be crucial in addressing the growing drug crisis and disrupting the networks that facilitate the flow of these dangerous substances into Cyprus.