Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has detained 34 individuals on charges related to drug offenses — this was announced today by Interior Minister Geka Geladze at a briefing.
According to Geladze, large quantities of various narcotics were seized as evidence, including heroin, cocaine, Suboxone, methadone, alpha-PVP, as well as unregistered firearms and ammunition.
“I would like to inform the public about another successful police operation. Late in the evening on June 8, during coordinated operations conducted across dozens of locations nationwide, 34 individuals were detained on drug-related charges.
Among the detainees are both Georgian and foreign nationals. The majority were engaged in the illegal distribution of various narcotic substances; some are charged with the illegal acquisition and storage of drugs in large and especially large quantities. I should note that several of them are major drug dealers.
The investigation has established that the individuals detained for drug crimes were involved in drug distribution schemes — using various methods and platforms, including mobile apps and social media, they placed drugs in specific locations. It is believed that the drug distribution was intended to target nightclubs and entertainment venues across the country.
On the basis of court orders, our officers conducted multiple controlled purchases from the suspects, who were under investigation for illegal drug sales, and recorded these operations using covert audio and video surveillance. During searches of the suspects’ homes and personal belongings, particularly large amounts of different drugs were seized as evidence, including heroin, cocaine, Suboxone, methadone, alpha-PVP, and others, along with materials used for drug packaging and, presumably, cash received from illegal sales. In addition, unregistered firearms and ammunition were confiscated.
If found guilty, the detainees face up to 20 years or life imprisonment. Finally, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to every police officer who tirelessly fights to put an end to the spread of drugs in our country once and for all — saving thousands of citizens from the devastating disease of addiction,” said Geka Geladze.