Georgian law enforcement uncovers ₾53.8 million psychotropic drug trafficking scheme, 17 arrested

Georgia’s Investigative Service of the Ministry of Finance has announced a criminal case involving the illegal trade of psychotropic medications valued at more than GEL 53 million, money laundering, and unlawful business activities.

Speaking at a briefing on Wednesday, officials said investigators carried out more than 1,000 investigative and procedural actions as part of the operation.

According to the agency, 17 members of an organized criminal group have been arrested, while three additional suspects remain at large and will be placed on a wanted list. Charges have also been filed against 11 individuals who cooperated with investigators and assisted in exposing the alleged criminal network. Criminal proceedings have additionally been launched against 24 legal entities registered in Georgia.

Investigators said the suspects include former senior officials of Georgia’s Agency for Regulation of Medical and Pharmaceutical Activities, who allegedly abused their official positions over several years to facilitate the operation of the scheme for personal gain.

The investigation found that the network, which authorities say contributed to the spread of so-called “pharmacy drug abuse,” operated in Georgia between 2018 and 2025. The scheme was allegedly organized by executives of companies importing psychotropic medications.

According to investigators, the imported medications were formally documented as being supplied to fictitious pharmaceutical companies registered in the names of associated individuals. In practice, however, the drugs were allegedly sold without prescriptions or the required permits, often at significant markups, through outlets that did not even hold pharmacy licenses.

Authorities estimate that the illegal sale of psychotropic medications generated revenues of GEL 53,833,723. Investigators allege that a substantial portion of these proceeds was laundered by being recorded as salaries and dividend payments.

Using the proceeds of the scheme, suspects and affiliated individuals allegedly acquired significant movable and immovable assets. Officials said all identified assets have been frozen and may later be used to compensate for damages.

The Investigative Service stated that, beyond causing tens of millions of lari in financial damage to the state, the group’s activities endangered the lives and health of thousands of citizens through the illegal retail sale of psychotropic substances.

The case is being investigated under Articles 192 and 194 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which carry prison sentences ranging from nine to eleven years.

Authorities warned individuals and companies operating in the sector that the state will take a strict approach toward offenses that damage public finances, increase corruption risks, and threaten public health. Officials pledged to continue intensive operational measures and monitoring efforts aimed at eliminating illegal “pharmacy drug abuse” networks in the country.

The Investigative Service also thanked the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the State Security Service, the Revenue Service, and the Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance and cooperation throughout the investigation.