The use of cocaine and other synthetic drugs is rising sharply in Cyprus, replacing cannabis as the country's most widely used illicit substance.
According to Christos Andreou, director of the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN), drug seizure trends indicate growing demand for harder substances, which are sold at significantly higher prices than cannabis.
Nationwide cocaine seizures have reached 83 kilograms so far this year, including more than one kilogram seized during a police operation in Mazotos, compared with 51 kilograms seized during the whole of 2025.
By contrast, cannabis seizures have fallen sharply. Including cannabis resin, authorities confiscated 450 kilograms by the end of October 2026, compared with 810 kilograms throughout 2025.
"We are monitoring the situation, remain constantly alert and operations will continue at the same intensive pace," Andreou said.
Suspected trafficking network member arrested
The latest cocaine trafficking case emerged on Monday when police arrested a 32-year-old Greek Cypriot man suspected of involvement in an organised drug distribution network.
Officers stopped his vehicle in a rural area and discovered 100 grams of cocaine and 16 firecrackers. Further searches recovered an additional 100 grams of cocaine in a plastic container hidden nearby.
At his home, officers found:
- Eight grams of cocaine.
- Six grams of cannabis.
- A small quantity of cannabis resin.
- Precision scales.
- A grinder containing cannabis residue.
- €21,100 in cash believed to be linked to drug trafficking and other illegal activities.
A further search of nearby ground uncovered 826 grams of cocaine hidden underground in a second container.
Police also seized four mobile phones and other evidence for forensic examination.
The suspect, who was previously unknown to YKAN despite intelligence concerning him, appeared before the District Court of Larnaca, which ordered his detention for eight days while investigations continue.
Police are also examining his financial affairs.
