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Surge in meth use causing alarm

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A surge in meth use over the past five years has caused alarm, with an official telling the Cyprus Mail that the problem is getting worse each year.

Ykan (drug squad) Chief Stelios Sergides spoke to us on Thursday following a major 1.5kg meth bust this week, which led to two arrests.

“There is an increase of meth use, this is clear from the busts, the drugs that are being seized but also from the number of people seeking assistance at care centres,” Sergides told the Cyprus Mail.

He said that there has been an increase in the number of drug users seeking help from state services who are declaring meth as their primarily drug of choice.

“Of course this is at lower levels as seen in other countries, but it is still concerning and worrisome,” he explained.

The major drug bust on Wednesday occurred almost exactly one year after Cyprus’ first ever meth lab was raided on June 18, 2020.

At the time Sergides said it was “unprecedented” and the case led to six arrests. Both this week’s raid and last year’s bust centred on and around Limassol.

But when did the trend of increased meth use seem to begin?

“It has been about four to five years that this issue has been surfacing, and each year there is a greater increase,” Sergides said.

And why in Cyprus – why now?

“No one can say for sure just yet but definitely it is in part due to a change on what is on the market, it’s availability and a cultural shift are just some of the many factors,” he said.

Meth, more properly known as methamphetamine, is notorious for its harmful effects on users when taken in higher doses for a prolonged period – and can lead to psychosis and violent behaviour.

“It’s an incredibly dangerous substance for the user and it greatly impacts a person’s personality – making it a danger not just for themselves but for others around them,” the Ykan chief said.

At the bust on Wednesday, the drug squad seized three pistols and 128 rounds of ammunition along with €78,500 in cash.

“It’s a major concern to us, but the drug network is also involved in other very serious crimes, such as guns, so it’s a very seriously organised network,” he said.

As for any potential links to international gangs from other countries, Sergides said this is currently under investigation.

Those seeking assistance with substance abuse can contact the ‘Anosi’ detox unit, run by the state health services, or the Ayia Skepi drug rehabilitation centre.

 

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