Student caught with cannabis said he accepted to deliver it for $200 to help his sick mother

Lefkoşa, North Cyprus – A suspect arrested with over 2 kilograms of cannabis in a major anti-drug operation has been remanded in custody for three days following a court appearance on Monday.

The individual, identified as S.J.M., was apprehended during a coordinated police operation dubbed "Operation Tanyeri", jointly conducted by the Lefkoşa Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit and the Narcotics and Anti-Smuggling Division.

According to police testimony presented in court, S.J.M. attempted to flee upon noticing the approaching police units near a residential building in the Küçük Kaymaklı area of Lefkoşa, but was quickly apprehended using reasonable force.

Large Quantities of Cannabis Seized

The police told the court that during a search of the suspect’s parked vehicle, officers discovered 18 transparent packages wrapped in duct tape containing approximately 500 grams of cannabis on the front passenger seat. Additional packages weighing 280 grams and 340 grams were located on the back seat.

Further searches of the suspect’s residence in Girne uncovered 40 grams of cannabis in 28 foil-wrapped packages, as well as packing materials, including foil sheets and duct tape. Inside the bedroom, authorities also found a clear bag containing 10 grams and a separate package containing 1 kilogram of cannabis, bringing the total seized amount to approximately 2.17 kilograms.

Suspect Confesses to Drug Courier Role

During interrogation, S.J.M. admitted to acting as a courier, claiming he accepted the task in exchange for $200, which he intended to send to his ailing mother. Police said the suspect confessed to communicating with an individual wanted by authorities, and receiving the drugs from a third party. He admitted he was instructed to deliver the narcotics to specified individuals.

 

Ongoing Investigation and Additional Suspects Sought

The police informed the court that the confiscated substances have been sent for laboratory analysis. Surveillance footage is being reviewed, and two additional suspects are currently wanted in connection with the case. Investigators also intend to examine the suspect’s mobile phone and verify his immigration status.

Taking the testimony into account, the judge ordered that the suspect remain in police custody for an additional three days to allow the investigation to proceed.