Over 20 kilograms of opium were attempted to be smuggled into Uzbekistan in truck batteries. Video

Over 20 kilograms of opium hidden in truck batteries intercepted entering Uzbekistan. Video

A major attempt to smuggle drugs was thwarted in the Samarkand region. A foreign national attempted to bring over 20 kilograms of opium into Uzbekistan in a Renault truck, concealing the illicit cargo in vehicle hideaways and inside two batteries.

The operation was conducted by officers of the State Security Service department for the Samarkand region, together with regional units of the customs service and internal affairs. During an inspection of a house in the Ishtikhon district, where the suspect was temporarily residing, security forces discovered an additional 20.239 kilograms of opium.

According to investigators, the 55-year-old citizen of a Persian Gulf country acted in collusion with a citizen of a neighboring republic, whose identity is currently being established. The drugs were delivered to Uzbekistan in a heavy goods vehicle driven by the detained foreigner.

Criminal proceedings have been initiated against the foreign national and other potential accomplices under articles concerning smuggling and illegal drug trafficking.

The investigation is ongoing. Law enforcement agencies are identifying everyone who may be involved in the scheme.

Earlier, over 5.5 kilograms of opium were seized from secret compartments in the Samarkand and Khorezm regions.