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Research: Which Drugs are Showing Explosive Increases in Each Province of Cyprus

Published March 18, 2026, 12:11
Research: Which Drugs are Showing Explosive Increases in Each Province of Cyprus

A pan-European study measures drug use through the analysis of urban wastewater in various cities in Cyprus. The results show that Cyprus is below the European average, but increasing trends are recorded in many substances and differences between cities. In Nicosia, cannabis remains the most widespread substance with a significant increase. In Limassol, there is an explosive increase in amphetamine (260%), while cocaine and MDMA are decreasing. In Larnaca, cocaine, MDMA, and methamphetamine are increasing, suggesting a more complex picture of use. Ayia Napa shows the highest increases in methamphetamine (287%) and amphetamine (258%), possibly due to the tourist character of the area. Paphos shows relative stability, while cannabis remains the most popular substance. At the substance level, amphetamine and methamphetamine are on the rise, while cocaine shows conflicting results. Cannabis continues to increase, while ketamine shows local increases.