Uzbekistan Dismantles Online Drug Trafficking Network

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Law enforcement authorities in Tashkent and the Tashkent region have dismantled an organized criminal group involved in the illegal circulation of potent substances via online platforms, the Ministry of Internal Affairs said. Eight members of the group were detained, and 219 kilograms of prohibited substances were seized.

According to law enforcement agencies, an illegal trafficking channel had been operating on the Telegram messenger since 2023, facilitating the distribution of psychoactive medicinal products. Investigators said the network functioned as a multi-level structure with clearly defined roles among participants, including storage, transportation, and distribution.

One of the key suspects was identified as citizen Jaloliddin Muriddinov, who allegedly converted a rented apartment, where he lived with his family, into a storage facility for illegal substances. During a search, authorities reportedly discovered more than 200 kilograms of pregabalin and over 10 kilograms of tropicamide prepared for distribution.

Investigators said the Telegram channel could have distributed up to 800 kilograms of potent medicinal substances annually and also served as a supply route for precursors used in underground laboratories.

It was also established that some members of the group had specific assigned roles. According to investigators, citizen Islamov Shakhzod Shavkat o‘g‘li was responsible for storage. A search of his apartment and vehicle reportedly uncovered laboratory equipment components, as well as 6 kilograms of pregabalin and 100 grams of tropicamide.

Another suspect, Kurbanov Asror Osim o‘g‘li, allegedly handled the storage of large quantities of substances. Other members — Abdug‘aniev Ziyodulla, G‘iyosov Sirojiddin, and Murodov Sadriddin — were responsible for distribution and were detained while attempting to sell more than 2,000 psychotropic pills.

A criminal case has been opened under Part 5 of Article 251-1 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan. All detainees have been placed in custody and investigative actions are ongoing.