Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus police anti-drug squad Ykan said on Saturday it had dismantled a nationwide drug ring involved in the importation and circulation of opiates. Authorities said about 60kg of opiates were seized during the investigation.
Arrests and court proceedings
Police said 17 related cases were investigated, with 21 people arrested and two others wanted. According to authorities, 16 of the 17 cases have already been registered before the court and referred to the criminal court for trial, while 21 defendants are being held in custody as pre-trial detainees.
Additional allegations
During the investigation, police said testimony was obtained against three defendants alleging that they imported additional quantities of poppy seeds into Cyprus over the past three months. The three face additional charges.
Measures to stop imports
As part of efforts to halt the import of this type of drug, Ykan said it contacted a foreign company through which packages containing the seized quantities had been sent to Cyprus. Police said the company has since implemented the relevant recommendations and measures to stop the possibility of sending the specific products to Cyprus.
Recent seizures
Police said the bust includes recent opiate seizures ranging from 2kg to 30kg.