US-Azerbaijan partnership foils $90 million heroin smuggling operation PHOTO

Azerbaijani customs authorities, equipped with U.S.-provided technology, recently prevented a major heroin smuggling operation, intercepting drugs valued at $90 million.

According to Caliber.Az, the U.S. Embassy shared details of the operation on its official Facebook page, highlighting the role of American support in strengthening regional security.

"Earlier this month, Azerbaijani customs officials in Astara seized a substantial quantity of heroin valued at $90 million. The drugs were transiting Azerbaijan on their way from Iran to Estonia. The seizure of these dangerous drugs was made possible due to a train scanner provided by the U.S. Embassy’s Military Group to the Azerbaijan State Customs Committee in 2021. This operation highlights the critical role of international and U.S.-Azerbaijan cooperation in combating drug trafficking. This month’s operation is a perfect example of how U.S.-Azerbaijan cooperation benefits both countries, and keeps America, Azerbaijan, and the entire region safer," the post reads.

By Tamilla Hasanova