The State Security Service of Uzbekistan (SSS) announced the interception of over 35 kilograms of narcotics smuggling in the Tashkent and Surkhandarya regions. The operations involved the apprehension of individuals attempting to illegally cross the state border.

In Tashkent Region, a joint rapid operation by SSS Border Troops and regional management led to the arrest of two citizens aged 23 and 28. They were found with 4.88 kg of opium and 19.86 kg of hashish, along with 380 boxes of tobacco products. A criminal case has been initiated under Articles 223, 246, and 273 of the Criminal Code, and the suspects have been placed in custody.

In Surkhandarya Region, three individuals aged 48, 45, and 22 were detained while illegally crossing the border by swimming across the Amu Darya River using an automobile inner tube. Bags in their possession contained 2.7 kg of opium and 8.25 kg of hashish. Investigation revealed that drug traffickers had promised the couriers $200 per kilogram of delivered contraband.

Regarding the Surkhandarya incident, a criminal case has been opened under Articles 223 and 246 of the Criminal Code, with the suspects taken into custody. Investigative actions are ongoing in both cases, highlighting the ongoing challenges in combating drug trafficking in Uzbekistan.

Source: www.gazeta.uz