As a result of a special operation, the SSU dismantled an organized criminal group engaged in cross-border trafficking of psychotropic substances.

According to the investigation, the smuggling was organized by three residents of Kyiv oblast. They attempted to organize illicit transportation of drugs from the border areas of Vinnytsia region to neighbouring Moldova.

The smugglers specialized in PVP - one of the prohibited synthetic psychostimulants.

The SSU exposed the traffickers in an attempt to transport a batch across the state border by water.

The investigators established that the group received the ‘goods’ for sale from their accomplices across the country. They used a network of hidden warehouses and small remote-controlled boats for shipping.

During the investigation, the investigators seized:

• over 75 kg of prohibited substances ready for shipment;
• scales and packaging;
• communication devices and SIM cards;
• money, records and other evidence.

The estimated black-market value of the seized drugs is about UAH 37.5 mln (USD 894,000).

Within the criminal proceedings, SSU investigators notified the members of the group of suspicion of crimes under Articles 305.3 and 307.3 of the CCU.

The court has ruled to hold the suspects in custody. The pre-trial investigation is ongoing.

The SSU Office in Vinnytsia oblast carried out the operation under the procedural supervision of the regional prosecutor’s office.