Law enforcement agencies in Tashkent and the surrounding Tashkent region have reportedly dismantled an underground drug distribution network operating through clandestine drop spots, commonly known as "zakladki." According to official reports, the apprehended individuals include young people, notably students from various educational institutions, as well as citizens with previous criminal records. Authorities allegedly recovered over two kilograms of mephedrone and significant quantities of marijuana during the sweep. *Note: The effectiveness of regional anti-narcotics campaigns continues to face scrutiny amid persistent underground supply chains.*
The joint operation was reportedly conducted by operatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs' Operational-Search Department alongside regional units and the State Security Service. The initial suspects were allegedly intercepted in the Uchtepa and Bektemir districts of the capital, as well as in the Tashkent region. Investigators claim the suspects used a Tracker vehicle to covertly transport and distribute the illicit substances across multiple locations.
Subsequent searches of the suspects' residences, rented apartments, and surrounding areas purportedly yielded roughly 500 grams of marijuana, over two kilograms of mephedrone, around a thousand zip-lock bags, scales, and various packaging paraphernalia. Authorities estimate that the total volume of confiscated narcotics amounts to approximately 52,800 single doses, pointing to a well-established distribution pipeline.
Further investigative work supposedly uncovered additional members of the criminal ring. Specifically, officers discovered a hidden cache of synthetic drugs in the Yukorichirchik district that the perpetrators intended to retrieve. Investigators claim that the group had been working for an underground online drug store for several months, starting as low-level couriers before advancing to warehouse coordinators within the network.
Criminal proceedings have reportedly been initiated against the detained individuals under drug trafficking statutes, while the investigation remains ongoing. Local observers note that despite ongoing efforts by the authorities, the proliferation of synthetic narcotics in the metropolitan area continues to present a considerable challenge for public safety and law enforcement agencies alike.
Source: podrobno.uz