Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A large-scale drug smuggling attempt was thwarted by the State Security Service (SSS) of Uzbekistan during an operation in Khorezm Region.

According to the authorities, a 34-year-old resident of Sherabad District (Surkhandarya Region) was caught red-handed in Turtkul District of the Republic of Karakalpakstan while transporting narcotics in a specially concealed compartment of a DAF truck.

During the search, officers discovered and seized 49.6 kilograms of opium hidden in the cargo section. Preliminary investigations suggest that the narcotics were illegally smuggled from the Republic of Tajikistan, with the intention of distributing them within Khorezm Region.

A criminal case has been initiated under Part 2 of Article 246 and Part 5 of Article 273 of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code. The suspect has been remanded in custody by court order.

Investigative efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals potentially involved in the operation.