Uzbekistan Seizes Over 35 kg of Illegal Drugs in Border Operations

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbek security forces have disrupted two major drug smuggling channels, seizing over 35 kilograms of illegal substances in operations carried out in Tashkent and Surkhandarya regions. The interventions involved personnel from the State Security Service (SSS) and Border Troops.

In Tashkent region, authorities detained two individuals, born in 1998 and 2003, while attempting to cross the state border illegally. A search of their belongings revealed 4.884 kilograms of opium, 19.863 kilograms of hashish, and 380 packs of tobacco products stored in two sports bags. A criminal case has been initiated under Articles 223, 246, and 273 of the Criminal Code, and the suspects are held in custody pending ongoing investigations.

In Surkhandarya region, SSS officers working with border guards intercepted a smuggling channel from Afghanistan. Three individuals, born in 1978, 1981, and 2004, were detained while attempting to cross the Amudarya River using a vehicle compartment.

Authorities discovered 2.708 kilograms of opium and 8.257 kilograms of hashish. Investigators established that the couriers had been promised US$200 per kilogram of transported narcotics.

A criminal case has been opened under Articles 223 and 246 of the Criminal Code. The suspects are in custody, and investigative activities continue.

These operations demonstrate Uzbekistan’s strengthened border control and anti-narcotics measures aimed at curbing illegal trafficking and protecting public security.