Фото: CBSP
Europol conducted a major anti-drug operation with the participation of law enforcement agencies from Ukraine, Poland and Moldova. Belarus is also mentioned in the press release.
The operation targeted an international network involved in the production and trafficking of synthetic drugs, primarily alpha-PVP. It took place from February 12 to 17.
Ukrainian and Polish police carried out searches at 510 locations. A total of 36 clandestine laboratories and 74 storage facilities for psychotropic substances were dismantled. Charges were brought against 129 individuals, and 103 people were taken into custody.
“The network is believed to operate in several countries, including Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine. The group is reportedly led by a Ukrainian organiser who establishes illegal laboratories and supplies them with the necessary equipment and chemical substances. Investigators believe that this individual maintains extensive ties with Polish criminal networks, facilitating the supply of precursors, required chemicals and equipment through legal business structures,” the Europol statement said.
It is noted that the supply of chemical components for the production of psychotropic substances was carried out through legal business structures controlled by Polish and Lithuanian citizens who had previously been involved in drug distribution. By exploiting legal loopholes in several countries at once, the perpetrators reduced the risk of exposure and complicated the work of law enforcement agencies.
A large quantity of precursors was seized, as well as 229.4 kg of alpha-PVP, 156.3 kg of amphetamine, 7 kg of methamphetamine, 67.6 kg and 350 litres of mephedrone, 47 kg of marijuana, 5,115 MDMA tablets, 2,000 ecstasy tablets, significant sums in hryvnias, dollars and euros, virtual assets, and 41 vehicles.