Seven arrested in Batumi as police seize nearly half a kilogram of methadone

Georgian police have arrested seven people in Batumi on drug-related charges after seizing nearly half a kilogram of methadone allegedly prepared for distribution.

Officers from the Adjara Main Division of the Central Criminal Police Department carried out the arrests at different times as part of an investigation into the illegal purchase, possession and distribution of narcotics.

The suspects include both Georgian and foreign nationals.

Police said searches of the detainees and their temporary residences led to the seizure of a particularly large quantity of methadone, with investigators recovering close to half a kilogram of the drug.

Authorities also confiscated materials used for packaging narcotics.

The Interior Ministry said the suspects are accused of acting as part of a group that had agreed in advance to facilitate the sale and distribution of drugs.

The investigation is being conducted under several articles of Georgia's Criminal Code relating to the illegal purchase, possession and distribution of narcotic substances.

If convicted, the suspects face penalties ranging from lengthy prison terms to life imprisonment.