Suspected drug dealer arrested in Georgia over large-scale methadone distribution scheme

Officers from the Central Criminal Police Department of Georgia's Ministry of Internal Affairs have arrested one person on charges of illegally purchasing, possessing and facilitating the distribution of a particularly large quantity of narcotics.

Police conducted a controlled purchase of narcotics from the suspect and made covert audio and video recordings of the transaction. Investigators say the evidence gathered during the operation confirmed the suspect's alleged criminal activities.

The investigation found that the suspect allegedly attempted to distribute drugs through the use of so-called couriers. Individuals interested in earning money were reportedly offered the opportunity to participate in the scheme in exchange for substantial financial compensation.

Under the alleged arrangement, couriers were instructed to place narcotics at designated locations, photograph the drop-off sites, record their coordinates and send the information to the suspect in return for payment.

During a search of the suspect's residence, officers seized narcotics allegedly prepared for distribution, as well as materials used for packaging the substances.

The offences carry penalties of up to 20 years' imprisonment or life imprisonment upon conviction, the ministry said.