Ukraine exposes a major illegal arms and drugs market

The Office of the Prosecutor General reported the seizure of 187 grenade launchers, 85 automatic weapons, and thousands of rounds of ammunition, alongside narcotics valued at $363,495.

Sep 21, 2024 - 14:00

Ukraine exposes a major illegal arms and drugs market

Exposed illegal weapons.

Ukrainian law enforcement agencies claim to have disrupted significant channels for illegal weapons and drug distribution, according to the Office of the Prosecutor General.

The operation, conducted on 21 September resulted in 116 individuals being notified of suspicion for various criminal offenses.

The Prosecutor General’s Office reports that 49 people are suspected of illegal possession and sale of weapons and ammunition, as well as misappropriation of military equipment. An additional 67 individuals face charges related to drug trafficking.

Over 129 searches were carried out, leading to substantial seizures of military-grade weapons and explosives.

Law enforcement officers seized 12 mortar and anti-tank mines, 187 grenade launchers, over 85 automatic rifles and machine guns, and nearly 38,000 rounds of ammunition. The inventory also included homemade firearms, detonators, TNT blocks, and various other weapons and explosives.

In a parallel effort targeting drug trafficking, authorities conducted 69 searches across several regions. These raids netted psychotropic substances valued at over 15.5 million hryvnias ($363,495), including significant quantities of amphetamine, MDMA, cannabis, and other illegal drugs.

The investigation revealed that suspects had been using Telegram to facilitate drug sales through “dead drops” and postal services throughout 2024, even in frontline regions affected by the ongoing war. Eleven individuals are accused of participating in these activities as part of an organized criminal group.

Law enforcement also shut down a laboratory producing narcotic and psychotropic substances during the operation. The Prosecutor General’s Office indicated that the process of determining preventive measures for the suspects is underway, and the investigation continues.

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