Deputy Interior Minister: 108 people arrested in nationwide drug operation

Georgia’s Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze announced that 108 individuals involved in drug distribution and support networks have been arrested across the country in the past 72 hours.

Darakhvelidze said law enforcement conducted intensive operational and investigative measures targeting the illegal circulation of narcotics and psychotropic substances. Those detained include both Georgian and foreign nationals accused of large-scale acquisition, possession, sale, facilitation of sales, and illegal cultivation of narcotic plants.

“Investigations determined that most of the detainees were part of organized drug distribution schemes. Under court orders, police carried out controlled purchases, recorded audio and video evidence, and confirmed their criminal activities,” he said.

The operation also uncovered attempts to import drugs from abroad, with one suspect placing narcotics at over 600 locations in Imereti and Adjara for resale. Confiscated substances include cocaine, heroin, methadone, alpha-PVP, MDMA, buprenorphine, and clephedrone, alongside packaging materials and suspected proceeds from sales.

Darakhvelidze stressed that prosecutions are ongoing under Georgia’s criminal code, with penalties of up to 20 years or life imprisonment. Authorities said efforts to combat drug trafficking will continue uncompromisingly.