Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The press service of the State Security Service (SSS) of Uzbekistan has reported a series of anti-narcotics operations conducted across various regions of the country, resulting in the interception of over 22 kilograms of illegal drugs.

The operations began in Denau district of Surkhandarya region, where a previously convicted individual was apprehended while transporting 9 kilograms of hashish. Investigators determined that the drugs were received from couriers from Tajikistan for further distribution.

The next operation took place in the city of Fergana, where two individuals were found with 5 kilograms and 862 grams of hashish hidden in their car. A suspected buyer, who intended to purchase the drugs at 89 million soums per kilogram, was also detained. Authorities later arrested the organizer of the criminal group, who had smuggled the narcotics from Kyrgyzstan.

In Namangan, SSS officers arrested a previously convicted man attempting to sell 3 kilograms and 950 grams of hashish for US$38,000. A search of his home uncovered an additional 868 grams of hashish, also brought in from Kyrgyzstan.

In the Altynsay district of Surkhandarya region, a local resident and his accomplice were caught while attempting to sell 1 kilogram and 962 grams of opium. The batch was valued at 200 million soums. Investigators confirmed that the opium had originated in Tajikistan.

Meanwhile, in the Syrdarya region, two previously convicted individuals were arrested for attempting to sell 943 grams of opium, also traced back to Tajikistan.

In total, the operations prevented the circulation of 22 kilograms and 585 grams of narcotics. Criminal cases have been initiated, and investigations are ongoing.