Georgian law enforcement dismantle drug laboratory, arrest four

Georgia's Ministry of Internal Affairs on Thursday said police had uncovered an alleged clandestine drug laboratory, seized large quantities of suspected narcotics and arrested four people.

According to the ministry, an investigation conducted as part of several criminal cases found that the suspects were allegedly manufacturing narcotic substances for distribution at an illicit laboratory using various chemical substances and precursors.

Police said searches of the suspects, their homes and a vehicle, as well as locations identified during the investigation, led to the seizure of large quantities of suspected drugs prepared for sale.

The ministry said officers confiscated 41 litres of liquid containing alpha-PVP, nearly five kilograms of mephedrone, five litres of liquid containing mephedrone, and nearly two kilograms of alpha-PVP.

Investigators also seized materials allegedly used for packaging narcotics, along with cash believed to have been obtained through drug sales.

The ministry said investigative measures are continuing to identify and prosecute any other individuals allegedly involved in the case.

The investigation is being conducted under Articles 260 and 260¹ of Georgia's Criminal Code, offences punishable by up to 20 years' imprisonment or life imprisonment, according to the ministry.