VIDEO: NSS Reveals Smuggling Case of Approximately 31kg of Drugs

In the framework of a criminal case being investigated by the Investigative Committee of the Republic of Armenia, in close cooperation with employees of the National Security Service (NSS), a number of circumstances regarding the smuggling of large quantities of drugs from Iran to Armenia have been disclosed through necessary investigative and procedural actions as well as operational and intelligence measures.

It has been established that a 45-year-old resident of Syunik region made arrangements with a man residing in Iran to illegally transport and sell large quantities of narcotics in Armenia. According to the agreement, the 45-year-old man traveled from Meghri city to a location indicated by the aforementioned person in Iran, where the latter threw packages of narcotics across the state border into Armenia, wrapped in polyethylene bags. The resident of Syunik region took the packages, placed them in the trunk of his rented vehicle, and attempted to transport them illegally for sale.

However, on the same day, NSS employees, using operational information, stopped the vehicle on the road. A search of the vehicle's trunk revealed approximately 31 kg of various types of narcotics packaged, 2000 tablets marked 'Methadone', as well as a submachine gun and a pistol. A forensic chemical examination has been appointed to determine the composition of the discovered substances, with the conclusion regarding part of it indicating that they are of the type 'Methamphetamine'. The examination is still ongoing for the remaining substances.

Investigative actions have revealed that just days earlier, on September 12, 2024, the same individuals transported another batch of drugs weighing around 7 kg using the same method.

Based on sufficient evidence obtained, public criminal prosecution has been initiated against the resident of Syunik region under Article 46-399, part 3, clause 2 and Article 393, part 3, clause 2 of the RA Criminal Code. He has been taken into custody as a measure of restraint.

The investigation is ongoing. The identity of the Iranian citizen has been established. Necessary measures are being taken to fully disclose the criminal chain and provide legal assessment to the actions of all involved.

Notice: An accused individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court ruling that has entered into legal force.