Over 18 kilograms of narcotics were found hidden in a column at a post in Karakalpakstan

An attempt to smuggle a synthetic drug weighing over 18 kilograms was uncovered at the Davut-ota border customs post in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, according to the State Customs Committee.

The Lada Largus vehicle, which entered the republic, was subjected to a customs inspection conducted in cooperation with the operational structures of the Customs Department and the State Security Service.

During the inspection, customs officials noted two loudspeakers in the trunk of the vehicle that contained foreign objects. When these speakers were opened in the presence of impartial witnesses, 36 packages of polythene wraps were discovered cleverly concealed inside.

The Central Customs Laboratory confirmed that the white, pungent-smelling powder found in the packages was mephedrone, a synthetic drug weighing 18 kilograms and 97 grams.

"A criminal case has been initiated regarding this incident under the relevant articles of the Criminal Code, and investigative efforts are currently underway," the report stated.

It is worth mentioning that prior attempts to import narcotics from Russia, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan have also been intercepted.