Following multiple police operations conducted at different times, officers from the Central Criminal Police Department of Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) have arrested five individuals on suspicion of drug-related offences.

According to the Ministry, the suspects are accused of illicitly purchasing and storing a substantial quantity of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, as well as facilitating their sale.

“Among those detained are both Georgian and foreign nationals. During searches of the suspects’ personal vehicles, homes, and during investigative procedures, law enforcement officers recovered a particularly large cache of narcotics intended for distribution, including methadone, opium, marijuana, and the psychotropic substance ketamine,” the Ministry explained.

The investigation also uncovered materials used for packaging the drugs, as well as cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.

The inquiry remains ongoing under Articles 260, 260-4, and 261 of the Criminal Code, which prescribe penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment or life sentence,” the Ministry of Internal Affairs stated.