Operation ’Espanyol’: Drug trafficking from Spain, US and Portugal uncovered. 39 suspects and 90 million hryvnias seized. VIDEO+PHOTOS
Law enforcement agencies carried out a large-scale operation codenamed ‘Espanyol’, during which they uncovered international drug supply routes into Ukraine and a network for their distribution.
This was reported by the press service of the Office of the Prosecutor General, according to Censor.NET.
What is known?
At present, 39 individuals have been charged, 37 of whom have been detained.
A total of 141 searches were carried out, resulting in the seizure of over 67 kg of drugs and psychotropic substances, as well as property worth over 90 million hryvnias.
How did the scheme work?
"The drugs were smuggled in from Spain, Portugal and the US. Cocaine and hashish came from the first two countries, whilst cannabis came from the US. The illicit substances were concealed in household appliances and transported via international coaches or by post," the statement said.
In Ukraine, they were sold via Telegram channels and a network of distributors.
The special operation was carried out in two stages across 11 regions of Ukraine. Law enforcement officers disrupted the smuggling and inter-regional distribution channels, and also exposed other members of the network involved in the distribution of cocaine and cannabis.
What was seized?
According to the National Police, over 67 kg of drugs were seized, including 3.5 kg of cocaine, as well as cannabis, hashish, kratom, α-PVP, amphetamine, ketamine, MDMA, psilocybin mushrooms and confectionery containing tetrahydrocannabinol.
In addition, law enforcement officers seized equipment for cultivating drug-containing plants, machinery, vehicles, weapons and ammunition.
National Police investigators have notified 39 suspects of the charges against them, depending on their involvement in the illegal activities.
The penalty under the most serious charge carries a sentence of up to 12 years’ imprisonment with confiscation of property.
