Uzbek Authorities Seize 77 kg of Drugs Smuggled from Tajikistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbek law enforcement authorities have intercepted a large shipment of narcotics smuggled from Tajikistan into the Syrdarya and Surkhandarya regions.

The operation involved the State Security Service (SSS), Border Troops, customs, and other agencies.

In Syrdarya, a border patrol, in coordination with regional SSS and customs authorities, stopped two local residents born in 1983 and 1990 attempting to receive six bags thrown over the border from Tajikistan in Sharkobod, Khovas district.

Inspection revealed 8.314 kg of heroin and 54.458 kg of opium. A criminal case was opened under Part 2, Article 246, and Part 5, Article 273 via Article 25 of the Criminal Code, and the suspects were placed in pretrial detention.

In Surkhandarya, authorities arrested a 1984-born school teacher in Sariasiy district during the sale of 14.68 kg of opium to an undercover buyer for US$180,000. The narcotics were reportedly smuggled from Tajikistan. A criminal case was filed under Part 5, Article 273 of the Criminal Code, and the suspect remains in custody.

Investigations continue to identify and detain other individuals involved in the illegal drug trade.