**Nine Arrested in Paphos Drug Operation**
Paphos, Cyprus – In a significant drug enforcement operation conducted on Sunday, nine individuals were arrested for possession of various illegal substances, including cannabis, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The operation, which took place from 4 PM to midnight, involved multiple law enforcement units, including the drug squad, the Paphos crime division, and special forces from the MMAD headquarters.
According to a police statement released on Monday, the operation included a series of vehicle and motorcycle checks as well as a search of an apartment executed under a court warrant. During these activities, officers seized a substantial quantity of drugs and other illicit items.
The police report detailed the confiscation of 30.9 grams of cannabis, 11 grams of cocaine, 18 grams of methamphetamine, 4 grams of cannabis resin, 11 grams of synthetic cannabis, and two ecstasy tablets. In addition to the drugs, officers also seized eight vials of anabolic substances, €5,510 in cash, a taser, a knife, and duty-free tobacco products.
Among those arrested was a 29-year-old driver, who was apprehended after a knife was discovered in his vehicle. Following this, police conducted a search of his residence, where they found additional cannabis, eight vials of anabolic substances, a metal canister of laughing gas, a taser, and tobacco products.
A 23-year-old motorcyclist was also stopped during the traffic checks. He was found in possession of cannabis and a hand-rolled cigarette containing traces of the drug. He was subsequently arrested, charged in writing, and released pending a court appearance.
Additionally, a separate traffic check led to the arrest of a 19-year-old driver, who was found with cannabis in his possession. Like the motorcyclist, he was charged in writing and released.
During the apartment search, police discovered six individuals aged between 19 and 48 inside. All six were arrested to assist with ongoing investigations. The police noted that evidence collected during the operation is linked to a 19-year-old suspect, who is expected to appear before the Paphos district court for a remand order. The remaining suspects have since been released.
Authorities have stated that investigations into the matter are ongoing, and further details may emerge as the police continue to process the evidence gathered during the operation.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Cyprus to combat drug-related offenses and maintain public safety.