Azerbaijan foils drone-based narcotics smuggling attempt from Iran PHOTO

Azerbaijani border authorities have thwarted an attempt to smuggle a significant quantity of narcotics into the country using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from neighbouring Iran, according to a statement from the State Border Service.

The incident occurred on July 28 in the area overseen by the “Horadiz” border detachment. As part of ongoing border security and anti-drug operations, Azerbaijani forces detected and intercepted the UAV carrying the illicit cargo across the border from the Islamic Republic of Iran, Caliber.Az reports. 

A subsequent search of the area led to the seizure of 12.1 kilograms of marijuana and 399 methadone M-40 tablets, a powerful synthetic opioid.

Authorities say operational and investigative actions are continuing in connection with the case. The Azerbaijani government has intensified efforts in recent years to counter the growing use of drones in cross-border smuggling activities, particularly along its southern border.

By Sabina Mammadli