The drug squad (YKAN) seized 993 A4 paper sheets laced with synthetic narcotics from a Larnaca home on Tuesday in the largest case of its kind the island has investigated.
The sheets could have produced 300,000 doses worth approximately €1.5 million on the streets. Each sheet yields up to 300 doses of MDMB, a synthetic cannabinoid chemically manufactured to be far stronger than cannabis, with dangerous psychoactive effects.
The sheets are undetectable and odourless, making them a favoured method for smuggling drugs into prisons. Drug squad investigators are examining whether the massive haul was destined for inmates at the Central Prisons, though they are pursuing other lines of inquiry as well.
A 68-year-old man with no previous drug offences was remanded in custody for six days after the coordinated raid by authorities. The suspect had never previously come to the attention of drug authorities.
Christos Andreou, the drug squad commander, told philenews the case emerged from secured information and called it the most serious of its kind. He said there are serious indications “it’s possibly the main source supplying these specific drugs to various places”.
“The fact that what we found corresponds to approximately 300,000 doses that were prevented from circulation in Cypriot society is the most important thing for us,” Andreou said, describing it as “a significant success” being examined with all seriousness.
The drug-laced sheets are either imported and treated in Cyprus, or arrive already impregnated with narcotics. Drug squad information indicates these came from abroad, and authorities are working to identify which country.
Andreou confirmed the unit will cooperate with Interpol and Europol to trace the drugs’ origin and intended destination. The suspect’s statements so far have not advanced the investigation.
The 68-year-old faces charges including conspiracy to commit a felony, illegal supply of a controlled drug to another person, illegal possession of a controlled drug, and illegal possession with intent to supply. He appeared before Larnaca District Court, where prosecutors secured six days’ detention.
