**Title: Four Arrested in Limassol Drug Raid; Over 126kg of Ketamine Seized**
In a significant drug bust in Limassol, police have arrested four individuals following the seizure of more than 126 kilograms of ketamine, along with additional quantities of cocaine, methedrone, and MDMA. The arrests occurred after searches were conducted at two separate properties on Saturday.
The suspects, identified as an Israeli couple and a Palestinian couple, were taken into custody as part of an ongoing investigation into an organized drug trafficking network. Authorities suspect that this group was involved in smuggling drugs into Cyprus from Israel, utilizing luxury yachts that dock at marinas in Limassol and Larnaca.
During the operation, law enforcement officials discovered a range of illegal substances at the two locations. At the first property, police found 34 grams of cocaine, 246.5 grams of ketamine, 15 grams of methedrone, and 12 grams of MDMA. Additionally, officers seized €4,150 in cash and 42 packets of untaxed cigarettes. The second property yielded a staggering 126 kilograms and 630 grams of ketamine, along with a precision scale used for weighing drugs.
Both properties were equipped with precision scales and mobile phones, which have been taken as evidence in the case. Authorities believe the drugs were stored at these locations prior to being distributed, primarily targeting Israeli residents living in Cyprus rather than the local Cypriot population.
Following their arrest, the four suspects appeared before the Limassol District Court on Sunday. The court granted an eight-day remand for all four individuals, allowing police to continue their investigation into the drug trafficking operation.
The seizure of such a large quantity of ketamine and other drugs underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating drug-related crime in Cyprus. The police have not disclosed further details regarding the suspects' identities or the specific circumstances surrounding their arrests, as the investigation remains active.
As authorities work to dismantle this organized network, they continue to encourage the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug trafficking in their communities. The successful operation highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the public in addressing the issue of drug abuse and trafficking.