People attempting to sell opium detained in Karakalpakstan

Individuals attempting to sell narcotic substances were detained with physical evidence in Nukus, the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The information was reported by the State Security Service.

According to the report, during an оперативно-search operation, a previously convicted local resident was detained while selling 9 grams of opium to a buyer from Shumanay District for 4 million soums.

In addition, another 5 grams of opium were found in the possession of the Nukus resident.

It was established that he had obtained the prohibited substance from an acquaintance who had previously been convicted for drug trafficking offenses. During a follow-up operation conducted in Khojayli District, the individual was detained while attempting to sell 20 grams of opium for 8 million soums.

Furthermore, 1 kilogram and 176 grams of opium were seized from a bag in his possession.

According to available information, the narcotic substance had been smuggled into the country from the Republic of Tajikistan.

Criminal cases have been initiated against all three suspects under Article 28 and Article 246, Part 2 (smuggling), as well as Article 273, Part 5 (illegal preparation, acquisition, storage, transportation, or sale of narcotic drugs, their analogues, or psychotropic substances with intent to distribute) of the Criminal Code. A preventive measure in the form of detention has been applied.

For reference, under current legislation, individuals convicted of such crimes may face between 10 and 20 years of imprisonment.

It is worth noting that earlier in Fergana Region, individuals attempting to smuggle more than 11 kilograms of narcotic substances concealed in a vehicle’s fuel tank were detained.