Law enforcement officers detained two local residents who had established a channel for the supply and distribution of methamphetamine. The court remanded both suspects into custody.
In the regional capital of Zakarpattia, police shut down a criminal duo that specialized in the wholesale supply and sale of psychotropic substances.
According to the Main Directorate of the National Police in Zakarpattia Oblast, the organizers of the drug ring were two residents of the region who had a clearly defined division of responsibilities:
- A 53-year-old Uzhhorod resident organized a steady supply chain for the prohibited substances;
- a 46-year-old resident of the Uzhhorod district was responsible for the direct retail sale of psychotropic substances to customers.
Documentation of Sales and Search Results
Criminal investigators documented the fact of the “merchandise” being sold directly from hand to hand. An official expert report confirmed that the substance being sold was crystalline methamphetamine.
Based on court orders, law enforcement officers conducted authorized searches of the suspects’ residences and vehicles.
Among the physical evidence seized were:
- methamphetamine and cannabis prepared for sale;
- a batch of tablets with markings similar to those of the narcotic “ecstasy” (MDMA);
- electronic scales, zip-top bags, and packaging materials;
- approximately 1,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibers.
All hazardous substances and ammunition were sent to the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ Scientific Research and Forensic Center for ballistic and chemical analysis.
Detention and Charges
Both accomplices were detained in accordance with Article 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine and placed in a temporary detention facility.
Investigators informed the men that they are suspected of violating Part 2 of Article 307 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal production, manufacture, acquisition, storage, transportation, or shipment for the purpose of sale, as well as the illegal sale of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances, committed by a group of persons acting in concert).
The Uzhhorod City and District Court granted the prosecutor’s office’s motion and imposed a preventive measure on the suspects—detention with the right to post bail.
In addition, the 46-year-old participant in the drug ring is also charged with organizing or maintaining premises for the illegal use or manufacture of drugs under Parts 1 and 2 of Article 317 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (drug den). A criminal case has also been opened under Part 1 of Article 263 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine due to the discovery of a cache containing 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
Based on the totality of the crimes committed, the suspects face a lengthy prison sentence with confiscation of their property.
Source: Main Directorate of the National Police in Zakarpattia Oblast.
