In Odesa region, the SBU exposed the organized group specializing in manufacturing and sale of wholesale consignments of psychotropic substances. The offenders used weapons to protect the drug trafficking.

Allegedly, the group consisted of several local citizens. They equipped a drug lab for the amphetamine production in a private household of a group's member.

The operatives established that the drug traffickers sold the finished “staff” via personal ties in the region. The drug dealers manufactured and sold psychotropic substances totaling to UAH 1 m. (35,715) per month. The group has been operating for over a year.

Law enforcement officers detained the organizer and active member of the drug gang on selling another batch of amphetamine.

During searches at the place of “manufacturing”, the operatives discovered more than 2 kg of narcotic substances. Further, the law enforcement seized two Kalashnikov guns, 24 Makarov, “TT” and “Nagan” pistols, mortar bomb, over 1,500 rounds of various calibres, as well as 15 kg of gunpowder and components for firearms.

Additionally, the equipment and machines for manufacturing ammunition and processing small arms, grenade shells without fuse, electric detonators and smoke grenades were found by the SBU officers and sent for further examinations.

The issue of serving the detainees suspicion notices and choosing types of detention is being resolved.

The criminal proceedings initiated for illegal production, making, purchasing, storage, transportation, sending or sale of narcotics, psychotropics or their analogues. The investigation is ongoing to prosecute all group members involved in illegal activities. As a result of relevant examinations, the issue of initiating additional criminal proceedings for unlawful handling of arms, rounds and explosives is being decided.

The operation was carried out jointly with the Main Department of National Police, the Department of canine unit of Odesa Customs of the State Customs Service under the supervision of the Odesa Local Prosecutor’s Office No. 3.