US national sentenced to 12 years in prison for drug smuggling in Cyprus

The Larnaca Permanent Criminal Court has sentenced a 35-year-old United States national to 12 years in prison following his guilty plea. The defendant was convicted of importing and supplying 15 kilograms of cannabis, as well as impersonation. The case began on May 19, 2025, when authorities at a private logistics company in Larnaca discovered a shipment containing 30 packages of cannabis. The defendant was identified as the recipient of the package and was subsequently monitored by the Drug Law Enforcement Unit (YKAN). On May 25, 2025, the suspect collected the parcel and was immediately arrested by police. During his testimony, the man stated he traveled to Cyprus specifically to act as a courier for drug shipments. He claimed to be receiving 1,000 euros per delivery and cited financial difficulties as his primary motive for participating in the criminal activity.