Over 37 kg of Opium Seized in Samarkand Region Hidden in Marble Slabs

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Authorities in Samarkand Region have prevented an attempt to smuggle and distribute a large consignment of narcotics, the press service of the State Security Service of Uzbekistan reported.

During the operation, 37 kilograms and 421 grams of drugs were seized, concealed among marble slabs intended for construction work. Expert analysis confirmed that the confiscated substance is processed opium — a narcotic product obtained from raw opium through water extraction.

The special operation was carried out by the State Security Service in coordination with the regional law enforcement and customs authorities.

According to the investigation, the narcotics were brought into the country by a 33-year-old foreign national, whose citizenship has not been disclosed, with the intention of further distribution.

Two local residents, aged 44 and 30, were to handle the sale of the prohibited substance.

All three suspects have been detained and are in custody. A criminal case has been initiated, and investigative actions are ongoing.