Georgia intensified crackdown on drug trafficking, PM

Georgian PM Irakli Kobakhidze on Monday said his country has stepped up efforts to combat drug trafficking, with more than 3,000 alleged dealers detained in 2025 alone.

Speaking at the second meeting of the European Cities Against Drugs, the prime minister said the measures targeted both domestic distribution and international transit routes.

He noted that Georgia’s role as a transit country linking Asia and Europe creates additional challenges in tackling cross-border drugs trade.

Kobakhidze said the detection rate for drug-related crimes rose by 87% last year, while authorities uncovered 144 cases of international trafficking.

He added that more than 900 kilograms of heroin were seized in 2025, describing the figure as unprecedented for the country.

The prime minister also identified online drug sales as a growing challenge, saying tackling digital distribution networks is now a key priority.

Kobakhidze said Georgia was ready to expand cooperation with international partners, share its experience and develop joint initiatives to disrupt trafficking networks.