Azerbaijan seizes over 246 kg of drugs, detains hundreds in December crackdown

In December 2024, the State Border Service of Azerbaijan continued its efforts to ensure the effective protection of the national border, focusing on combating smuggling, illegal migration, and the illicit trafficking of narcotic substances.

Some 32 individuals were detained during the month for violating the state border, including 8 Azerbaijani citizens, 12 Pakistanis, 5 Algerians, 5 Sri Lankans, and 2 Moroccans, the State Border Service told Caliber.Az.

Additionally, 7 people were apprehended while attempting to cross the border with falsified passports and counterfeit documents. In total, 863 individuals were detained for violating border regulations, with appropriate measures taken against each of them.

As part of crime prevention efforts, 358 wanted individuals were apprehended and handed over to relevant authorities. Furthermore, 446 individuals were prevented from leaving the country, and 11 persons who were prohibited from entering Azerbaijan were stopped at the border.

In a significant operation against the illicit drug trade, authorities seized a total of 246 kilograms and 496 grams of various narcotic substances, along with 833 psychotropic pills. Moreover, as part of its anti-smuggling measures, the State Border Service discovered and confiscated contraband valued at AZN 2,2 million including illegal medicines, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and ammunition.

By Vafa Guliyeva