The Ministry of Internal Affairs has arrested 34 individuals on drug-related charges over the past 24 hours.

As the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Aleksandre Darakhvelidze, stated during a briefing held at the Ministry, the majority of those detained are major drug dealers, while others are charged with the illegal purchase and possession of large quantities of narcotics.

According to him, among the detainees are both Georgian and foreign nationals.

“The Ministry of Internal Affairs continues its uncompromising fight against the illegal circulation and distribution of drugs throughout the country.

Yesterday, law enforcement officers carried out another successful police operation in Tbilisi and various regions. In the last 24 hours, 34 individuals have been arrested on drug-related charges. Most of them are major drug traffickers, while others are accused of the illegal purchase and possession of especially large quantities of drugs. Among the detainees are both Georgian and foreign citizens.

During the investigation, based on court orders, law enforcement officers carried out multiple controlled purchases of drugs from the accused and recorded the transactions using covert audio and video surveillance.

During searches of the suspects’ homes and personal belongings, large quantities of various narcotic substances were seized as evidence, including: fentanyl, heroin, methadone, suboxone, marijuana, and others.

As a result of the investigative actions, additional evidence was recovered, including narcotic substances illegally sold by the suspects, money allegedly obtained from drug sales, and unregistered firearms and ammunition.

The investigation has revealed that the individuals detained for drug offenses were using various methods of distribution, including hand-to-hand sales and the so-called “dead drop” method.

This crime is punishable by up to 20 years or life imprisonment.

Once again, I want to emphasize that the uncompromising fight against drug-related crime remains a top priority for the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Accordingly, the police will continue to implement strict measures defined by law to combat drug offenses.

Our Ministry will continue to periodically inform the public about the results of our efforts in the fight against drug crime,” - stated Aleksandre Darakhvelidze.