Politis

Three Arrests for Smuggling Large Quantity of Cigarettes at Paphos Airport

Published March 19, 2026, 17:22
Three Arrests for Smuggling Large Quantity of Cigarettes at Paphos Airport

Customs officials arrested three individuals at Paphos Airport for illegally trafficking a large quantity of cigarettes. The arrests were made after inspecting the luggage of two British passengers, aged 36 and 42, and a 47-year-old, who were destined for Manchester. A total of 65+65+61 cartons of cigarettes were found in their luggage, without the required health warnings in Greek and Turkish. The 36-year-old was released after paying an out-of-court settlement of €3,000. The 42-year-old and 47-year-old appeared in the Paphos District Court requesting a 4-day detention order, but were released after an out-of-court settlement. The case is being investigated by the Paphos Customs Office. The amount of cigarettes seized is significant, indicating an attempt to illegally traffic tobacco products. Authorities continue to intensify checks at airports and other entry points to Cyprus, aiming to combat smuggling.