Ukraine dismantles EU-linked cocaine trafficking network PHOTO

Ukraine’s State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) says it has dismantled an international cocaine trafficking network supplying drugs from European Union countries into Ukraine.

In a statement, the SBI said the operation was carried out with support from the State Border Service. The network allegedly involved citizens of Ukraine, Armenia, the Czech Republic and Germany and operated covertly across several countries, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media. 

According to investigators, the organiser of the group had previously served a prison sentence in the United States for drug-related offences. After returning to Ukraine, he allegedly resumed illegal activities and recruited accomplices in EU countries.

Law enforcement officials said cocaine was initially smuggled in small quantities by couriers, while the group was preparing larger shipments.

These larger deliveries were reportedly planned through maritime routes, including via the Black Sea port city of Odesa. Authorities estimate the group intended to import up to two kilograms of cocaine per week, with each shipment valued at more than $200,000 on the illegal market.

SBI officers said the suspected organiser was detained in Odesa and has been formally notified that he is under suspicion for violating Part 3 of Article 307 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, which covers large-scale drug trafficking.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not disclosed whether additional arrests are expected.

By Sabina Mammadli