A 40-year-old resident of Nicosia was arrested after allegedly attempting to smuggle in paper sheets thought to be soaked with illegal substances into central prisons, as reported by officials on Saturday.
According to the justice ministry, the man was detained during a strict inspection process at the prison.
He was visiting a female inmate when prison officers discovered the suspicious paper, which is believed to contain drugs.
Following the find, personnel from the prison department conducted a thorough physical search of him.
The justice ministry emphasized that these detailed checks were executed based on explicit orders from the justice minister, indicating a strong push to prevent contraband from entering the facility.
It was noted that the inmate he intended to visit is currently serving a sentence for homicide.
Shortly after the discovery, members of the drug law enforcement squad arrived to take the man into custody.
Authorities later searched both his vehicle and his home.
During the vehicle inspection, officers uncovered 14 grams of what is believed to be cannabis and 2 grams of cocaine.
However, no illegal substances were found at his residence.
The justice ministry confirmed that ongoing strict surveillance at central prisons will continue as part of efforts to prevent smuggling of illicit drugs into prison facilities.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
