Drug crimes in Uzbekistan doubled

Over the past five years, the number of drug-related crimes in Uzbekistan has doubled, while the amount of synthetic drugs seized has increased tenfold. This was reported to QALAMPIR.UZ by Sarvar Urmanov, Senior Inspector of the National Center for Drug Control under the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

“In 2024 alone, more than twelve thousand criminal cases were initiated — a quarter more than the previous year. This increase is linked not only to the growing activity of criminal networks but also to changes in drug trafficking methods. Today, trade is increasingly conducted through messengers and social networks. Couriers receive coordinates for ‘bookmarks,’ money is transferred online, and anonymity makes tracking difficult,” the specialist explained.

It was noted that while opiates and traditional drugs previously posed the main threat, synthetic substances and online sales channels are now taking the lead. The share of mephedrone, spice, A-PVP, and other synthetic drugs produced in clandestine laboratories is rapidly increasing. These substances are cheaper to produce, easier to transport, and have a stronger effect — which is why they are gradually displacing traditional opiates and cannabis.

At the same time, the illegal circulation of powerful prescription drugs has also grown. Medications such as pregabalin, sibutramine, and tropicamide have become a new source of addiction. In the past three years alone, the number of such drugs seized has risen sharply. Most of these substances are sold online or through pharmacies.

As a reminder, last month, several individuals who smuggled a large quantity of powerful drugs from Kyrgyzstan were detained in the Namangan and Fergana regions. A criminal case was opened against them under Articles 246 (Smuggling) and 251-1 (Manufacture, distribution, advertising, or promotion of products containing potent substances not classified as narcotics or psychotropic drugs, or the illegal circulation of such or toxic substances) of the Criminal Code. A preventive measure in the form of arrest was applied to the suspects.