Georgian police uncover drug trafficking ring, seize narcotics worth ₾14 million

Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs on Monday said officers from the Imereti Police Department had uncovered an organised drug trafficking group and prevented the distribution of up to 40 kilograms of narcotics following extensive operational and investigative measures.

The estimated black-market value of the seized drugs exceeds GEL 14 million.

The investigation found that two foreign nationals, who have since been arrested, were involved in a drug distribution scheme in which narcotics were concealed at pre-selected locations across several regions of Georgia. The suspects allegedly sent the coordinates and photographs of the drop-off points to buyers and other interested individuals.

Following searches of the suspects and inspections of the identified locations, law enforcement officers seized 117 packages containing up to 12 kilograms of methadone and 267 packages containing up to 28 kilograms of hashish as evidence.

The investigation is being conducted under multiple articles of the Criminal Code of Georgia. The offences are punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment or life imprisonment.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs said it continues nationwide efforts to combat the illegal circulation, distribution and sale of narcotic drugs