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Increase in Drug Cases in Northern Cyprus

Published February 24, 2026, 17:07
Increase in Drug Cases in Northern Cyprus

According to the Turkish Cypriot press, there has been a significant increase in drug-related cases in the occupied territories. During the period 2024-2025, the "authorities" recorded 778 cases, with 1,168 "suspects" arrested. Cases increased from 340 in 2024 to 438 in 2025, while arrests rose from 508 to 660. The seizures of drugs amounted to over 140 kilograms, with cannabis dominating (118.3 kilograms). More than 17,210 pills containing narcotics were also seized, as well as smaller quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, synthetic drugs, heroin, and LSD. The geographical distribution of cases and arrests indicates that the biggest problems are located in occupied Nicosia and occupied Kyrenia. These two areas show the highest number of incidents. These figures indicate a worrying trend of increasing drug trafficking and use in the occupied territories, potentially requiring enhanced measures to address the phenomenon.