Cyprus police say they have dismantled the third people smuggling ring in as many months

NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — Police in Cyprus say they have arrested 10 Syrian men in an operation that has dismantled the third people smuggling ring bringing migrants to the east Mediterranean island nation in as many months. A police spokesman said Tuesday the operation was centered in the southwestern district of Paphos. A combined force of 130 officers carried out 17 search warrants. Police arrested 10 suspects while five others were being sought. Around 160,000 euros ($170,000) were found in the possession of one of the suspects. Police said the ring operated since June 2019. The suspects face charges including conspiracy, participation in a criminal organization and people smuggling. Police say 7,914 migrants illegally reached Cyprus from the beginning of the year until mid-October.