Police arrested a 21-year-old in Nicosia last night after finding a small quantity of white powder resembling cocaine and 23 firecrackers nearby, during intensified Easter patrols across all districts.
Officers responding to a report of firecracker use at around 9:20 pm found the man sitting on a parked motorcycle. A substance resembling cocaine weighing approximately 1.8 grams was found on him, while 23 firecrackers were seized from the area near the motorcycle.
Traffic violations are also under investigation: the motorcycle was registered with the Vehicle Immobilisation Register as immobilised, had no valid roadworthiness certificate, and the 21-year-old had no driving licence.
In Paphos, officers carrying out a check at around 10:00 pm found a bag left in an open area containing 15 firecrackers, five of them homemade and ten factory-made, along with a knife. All were seized.
The two incidents came during a wider overnight operation in which police patrols responded to multiple incidents of fire lighting and firecracker use across Cyprus. Large quantities of timber and tyres intended for bonfires were seized in various areas with the help of local authorities, and the Fire Service was called to a number of incidents.
At gathering points where young people were present, a number of individuals were checked. Where minors were found, their parents were contacted to collect them.
Police said they are continuing with increased presence and targeted operations across all districts.