Two Arrested After More Than 6kg of Cannabis Found Hidden Behind Painting

Police have arrested two men aged 39 and 67 in connection with the seizure of more than 6kg of cannabis hidden inside a courier package that arrived at Larnaca Airport.

According to police, the drugs were found during a joint operation involving the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN) and the Customs Department.

Cannabis concealed behind artwork

The parcel, which arrived from a third country, had been declared as containing a painting.

However, during an inspection by customs officers on Friday morning, authorities discovered 11 packages of cannabis concealed behind the artwork.

The seized drugs had a combined gross weight of 6kg and 110g.

The narcotics were confiscated and handed over to YKAN investigators for further examination.

Controlled operation leads to arrests

At around 3.30pm, officers carried out a controlled operation targeting the intended recipients of the package.

A 39-year-old man was arrested after arriving to collect the parcel.

A 67-year-old man who accompanied him was also stopped and searched by police.

Additional substance found

During the search of the 67-year-old, officers allegedly discovered a brown solid substance weighing approximately two grammes, leading to his arrest for an offence committed in the officers' presence.

Police said subsequent investigations produced evidence linking the 67-year-old to the cannabis shipment collected by the 39-year-old.

Investigation continues

Both suspects remain in custody while police investigate offences relating to the importation, supply and possession of drugs with intent to supply.

The investigation is being conducted by the Organised Crime Directorate's YKAN unit in Larnaca.