A citizen of the Islamic Republic of Iran has been sentenced to imprisonment as a preventive measure after being detained for attempting to import a large quantity of narcotics and psychotropic substances into Georgia.

According to the investigation, the accused transported 200 kilograms of heroin into the country, with an estimated black-market value exceeding $50 million. The vehicle, which entered Georgia from Iran via Azerbaijan through the Red Bridge checkpoint, was reportedly bound for Bulgaria.

The detainee has pleaded not guilty, claiming he was only a hired driver unaware of the cargo.

The investigation is ongoing under several articles of the Criminal Code of Georgia, including Article 260 (illegal possession and acquisition of narcotic drugs), Article 262 (illegal transportation of narcotic drugs), and Article 261 (illegal possession of psychotropic substances). If convicted, the accused faces a sentence ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment.