Nicosia, Cyprus. Substance abuse and gambling are rising significantly among young people in Cyprus, Kenthea director Elena Zarouna said on Friday, citing recent drug seizures and wastewater data showing sharp increases in several substances. She said the trends indicate worsening addiction problems, especially among teenagers.
Recent drug seizures
Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency on the International Day Against Drug Abuse, Zarouna said there have been multiple high-profile cases related to large drug seizures.
On Tuesday, the police drug squad Ykan announced it had seized more than 30kg of opiate-based substances from an alleged TikTok-based opium ring.
Five people in their 20s were remanded on Thursday in connection with a seizure of 21kg of dried opium poppy pods.
Younger ages entering programmes
Zarouna linked the significant seizures to worsening drug problems in Cyprus, particularly among young people.
“For those of us working on the front lines, it is becoming clear that people are starting to use various substances at an increasingly younger age,” Zarouna said.
She said Kenthea now frequently sees teenagers as young as 14 or 15 entering its programmes.
Wastewater data shows increases
Zarouna also pointed to data from urban wastewater testing showing a 260 per cent increase in amphetamine levels in Limassol and a 258 per cent increase in Ayia Napa since the last measurement.
She also noted large increases in methamphetamine levels, as well as a 93 per cent rise in cocaine and a 157 per cent rise in MDMA in Larnaca.
Behavioural addiction concerns
In addition to rising drug use, Zarouna warned about “behavioural addiction,” including gambling and online gaming.
