**Paphos Kiosk Owner Fined Following Seizure of Illegal Nicotine Pouches**
A kiosk owner in Kato Paphos has reached an out-of-court settlement of €3,100 after customs officials seized a large quantity of illegal nicotine pouches during a coordinated operation on July 13. The operation involved multiple authorities, including the Customs Department, the Paphos anti-drug unit (Ykan), Paphos police, and the pharmaceutical service.
During the raid, officials discovered 377 packs of nicotine pouches from various brands that had been imported and were being offered for sale without the necessary licenses required for the Cypriot market. Additionally, it was revealed that the kiosk owner lacked the appropriate license to trade or sell legal tobacco products.
As a result of these violations, the kiosk owner was arrested on charges related to customs offenses. Following the seizure of the products, the owner opted for an out-of-court settlement, agreeing to pay the fine and formally surrender the confiscated items. The customs department has stated that the seized nicotine pouches will be destroyed in accordance with established procedures.
This incident highlights ongoing efforts by Cypriot authorities to regulate the sale of tobacco and nicotine products, ensuring compliance with local laws and protecting public health. The coordinated operation underscores the collaboration between various enforcement agencies in addressing illegal trade practices within the region.