Online drug shops surge on Telegram

In Uzbekistan, the circulation of narcotic substances has intensified in recent years. Methods of transporting and distributing drugs have become increasingly sophisticated, making detection more difficult. This was reported today, December 1, at a press conference attended by representatives of law enforcement agencies.

It was noted that drugs intercepted at checkpoints are often hidden inside women’s clothing, cosmetics, household appliance parts, and even children’s toys.

Experts emphasized that since mid-2025, the number of hidden “online drug shops” operating via Telegram has sharply increased. These outlets actively use electronic payment systems, fake crowdfunding operations, and accounts with hidden identities. Even if some channels are quickly shut down, others take their place almost immediately.

Over the past five years, the number of drug-related crimes has doubled. The quantity of seized narcotics has increased by 67%, while synthetic substances have risen by 80%, making synthetic drugs the greatest threat in the country. The primary consumers are young people aged 18–30.

In the first ten months of this year, 12,848 drug-related crimes were uncovered across the country, and 2,761 kg of narcotic, psychotropic, and potent substances were confiscated.

According to the presidential decree adopted on November 3, 2025, the “National Program for the Early Prevention of Drug Addiction and Combating Drug Crimes for 2025–2026” was approved. Under this program, a series of preventive and practical measures will be carried out nationwide.

To ensure the implementation of this decree, comprehensive rapid-preventive measures called “Safe and Healthy Country” are being conducted from November 20 to December 20.

It is important to note that synthetic and other types of narcotics are extremely dangerous to human health. They disrupt the central nervous system, negatively affect cardiovascular, liver, and kidney functions, and greatly increase the risk of death.

Narcotics also create strong psychological dependence, causing loss of emotional control and inhibitions. As a result, users become isolated from society and loved ones while posing a danger to those around them.

It is worth noting that on November 28, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s eldest daughter and Head of the Presidential Administration, Saida Mirziyoyeva, held a working meeting with law enforcement leaders at the Presidential Administration. The meeting tasked authorities with quickly establishing a coordinated and effective system to combat drug crimes, criminal groups, and the illegal circulation of weapons.