Cyprus Police Dismantle Third People Smuggling Ring in Three Months

Ten Syrian men arrested in operation targeting longstanding ring; Authorities on high alert as hundreds of migrants gather near Lebanese shores.

Cyprus police arrested 10 Syrian men, dismantling the third people smuggling ring within three months.
The suspects, who are charged with conspiracy, participation in a criminal organization and people smuggling, were running the operation since June 2019.
Police discovered 160,000 euros ($170,000) in cash in the possession of one of the suspects.
The latest arrests bring the total count to 22 people suspected of involvement in smuggling rings, part of the Cypriot government's 'zero tolerance' policy on people smuggling.
Reports indicate that hundreds of Syrian migrants have gathered near Lebanese shores, potentially preparing to sail for Cyprus and other European countries.