Tons of Drugs Seized, Hundreds Arrested: Results of CSTO Operation Revealed

An extensive anti-narcotics operation involving member states of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) has concluded with substantial seizures and arrests. The sub-regional operation, codenamed "Kanal - Amber Coast," ran from June 29 to July 3, targeting the illicit drug trade across participating nations. Kyrgyzstan's delegation, representing its Interior Ministry's drug control service, participated in the international coordination headquarters in Kaliningrad.

Preliminary results indicate a significant impact on drug trafficking. Law enforcement agencies confiscated over 3.351 metric tons of narcotics and psychotropic substances. Additionally, more than 2.441 tons of potent substances and over 1.096 tons of precursors were seized. While the exact amount detected within Kyrgyzstan was not specified, the overall figures highlight the scale of the operation.

The operation also resulted in the dismantling of seven clandestine drug laboratories. Authorities identified 521 crimes associated with illegal drug trafficking and apprehended 417 individuals. Beyond physical seizures and arrests, law enforcement agencies disrupted 1,376 internet resources used for disseminating prohibited information. They also flagged over 2,000 suspicious financial transactions, totaling more than 100 million Russian rubles.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan noted that the international coordination program also included a shooting tournament, where officers from the drug control service secured first and second place.