SSS Disrupts Major Drug Trafficking Channels in Ferghana and Karakalpakstan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Officers of the State Security Service of Uzbekistan (SSS) have disrupted several attempts at illegal drug trafficking, detaining members of criminal groups in Ferghana Region and the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

In Margilan, a businessman and his accomplice were arrested with nearly 9.9 kilograms of hashish, smuggled from Afghanistan through Surkhandarya Region. During the arrest, authorities seized US$14,500 and 6.25 million soums from the businessman, who attempted to flee. Another suspect’s residence yielded 110 grams of opium, electronic scales, US$1,200, and 28 million soums. Investigators determined that the drugs were intended for distribution in the Ferghana Valley.

In a separate operation in Turtkul District, Karakalpakstan, a previously convicted man collaborating with a resident of Khorezm Region was apprehended. They had ordered a large consignment of drugs from Afghan traffickers, transported through Surkhandarya and hidden in a cache. Authorities seized 6.1 kilograms of opium and nearly 9.8 kilograms of poppy straw.

Criminal cases have been opened in both incidents. All suspects are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.