SSS Thwarts Drug Smuggling Attempts, Seizes 47 kg of Opium and Hashish
The State Security Service (SSS) in Uzbekistan has successfully carried out a series of large-scale anti-narcotics operations, resulting in the seizure of over 47 kilograms of narcotics smuggled into the country from Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Several individuals have been arrested across multiple regions, and significant quantities of opium and hashish have been confiscated.
In the Surkhandarya region’s Uzun district, three individuals were caught attempting to smuggle 10.05 kg of opium and 10.03 kg of hashish from Tajikistan. Border troops intercepted the suspects as they tried to transport the drugs into Uzbekistan.
In a related operation in Muzrabad district, a 43-year-old man from Termez, with a history of drug-related offenses, was arrested while receiving 1.95 kg of opium and 4.12 kg of hashish trafficked from Afghanistan. A 48-year-old Kazakh national was also detained in Termez in connection with the illicit substances.
Another incident in Termez district involved the arrest of a 47-year-old resident of Samarkand trying to retrieve 922 grams of opium and 4.2 kg of hashish supplied by Afghan drug dealers. The suspect reportedly paid $2,300 per kilogram of drugs.
In the Sariosiyo district, a 56-year-old man from Denau, previously convicted of narcotics trafficking, was found with 4.08 kg of hashish smuggled from Tajikistan.
In the Fergana region, security forces intercepted a vehicle driven by a 45-year-old resident of Kokand, leading to the discovery of 975 grams of opium. Further searches of his residence revealed an additional 789 grams of opium and 5.24 kg of hashish supplied by Tajik dealers.
Lastly, a 26-year-old resident of Fergana was apprehended while trying to collect 4.92 kg of hashish in Kuvasay, left by Kyrgyz drug couriers for transport to Fergana.
All individuals involved in these crimes have had criminal cases opened against them and are currently in pre-trial detention, awaiting further legal proceedings. The successful operations conducted by the SSS demonstrate Uzbekistan’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
