Security services dismantle $1M synthetic drug lab in Andijan

A large-scale drug laboratory producing synthetic narcotics has been dismantled in the city of Andijan following a joint operation by security and customs authorities.

Photo: Frame from the video

The operation was carried out by the Andijan and Tashkent regional departments of the State Security Service, in cooperation with the Tashkent Regional Customs Department. The coordinated measures were aimed at identifying and shutting down illegal drug laboratories operating in the country.

During the operation, officers identified a significant quantity of precursors used in the production of synthetic drugs. The substances had been left at designated locations by curators of an online drug store operating via the Telegram messaging platform. Law enforcement authorities placed the materials under operational surveillance.

Two residents of Andijan, both born in 2002, were detained when they arrived to collect the precursors. Further investigation revealed that the suspects had established a drug laboratory in the Bogishamol neighborhood of Andijan.

A search of the premises resulted in the seizure of 26 kilograms of the synthetic narcotic substance mephedrone, with an estimated black market value of $1m. Authorities also confiscated large quantities of chemical precursors and reagents, laboratory equipment, adhesive containers with capacities of 10–20 liters, storage containers, respirators, rubber gloves, and other related materials. All items were formally documented as evidence.

According to investigators, one of the suspects had purchased the property used as a covert laboratory for $15,800, funds allegedly transferred by a curator of the online drug store. He reportedly spent an additional $5,000 to equip the facility.

In January of this year, the suspect is said to have produced 11.7 kilograms of mephedrone and, following instructions from the curator, placed the drugs in a concealed location before sending its coordinates to his handler.

Authorities also established that the suspects had hidden 400 liters of precursors in a rented warehouse in the city of Chirchik. These substances were seized and processed in accordance with procedural requirements.

A criminal case has been initiated under Article 273, Part 5 of the Criminal Code. The Investigation Department of the Tashkent Regional Directorate of the State Security Service has placed the suspects in pre-trial detention while investigative actions continue.