The SSU dismantled an organized criminal group involved in sale of hard drugs in various regions of Ukraine. In a special operation in Kyiv and Cherkasy region, the SSU detained 8 criminals, including leaders of the group.

They specialized in trafficking of large batches of methadone, a particularly dangerous drug. The traffickers received the drugs from their accomplices abroad.

According to preliminary data, the group’s monthly proceeds were over UAH 1 mln (USD 37,000).

The members of the group sold drugs through their own interregional network of dealers and used a system of so-called drops.

The dealers looked for clients in specially created Internet platforms, as well as through criminal environment.

Drug traffickers received payment from customers using bank cards issued to fictitious persons.

The law enforcement documented several episodes of selling methadone.

After another episode of trafficking in methadone, the law enforcement conducted searches at the locations where members of the group stayed in Kyiv and Uman district, Cherkasy region. The items seized include:

• a batch of methadone prepared for sale,
• communication devices with evidence of illegal activity,
• proceeds of crime.

All detainees have been notified of suspicion under Article 307.2 (illegal production, manufacture, acquisition, storage, transportation, shipment or sale of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances or their analogues) of the CCU. The court is to decide on the measure of restraint.

The SSU Main Directorate in Kyiv and Kyiv region carried out the operation jointly with the National Police under the supervision of Kyiv Darnytskyi District Prosecutor’s Office.