A suspect has been arrested in Odessa on suspicion of trafficking large quantities of cocaine
Operatives from the Department of Strategic Investigations and investigators from the Main Investigative Directorate of the National Police of Ukraine have uncovered the activities of a 41-year-old resident of Odesa, who is suspected of organising a cocaine supply route from European Union countries to Ukraine.
According to the investigation, after smuggling the drugs into Ukraine, the man sought out buyers in the southern regions of the country and sold the cocaine in large consignments. Law enforcement officers documented several instances of illegal sales.
During a special operation supported by officers from the Force Support Unit of the Department of Strategic Investigations, the suspect was arrested whilst attempting to sell one kilogramme of cocaine worth approximately 52,000 US dollars.
During searches, law enforcement officers seized mobile phones, bank cards, data storage devices, cash, and four briquettes weighing approximately 250 grams each. Forensic analysis confirmed that the seized substance contained a particularly dangerous narcotic drug, cocaine.
Investigators informed the detainee that he was suspected of offences under Parts 2 and 3 of Article 307 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, relating to the illegal acquisition, possession, transport and sale of narcotic drugs on an especially large scale.
At the prosecutor’s request, the court ordered the suspect to be remanded in custody without setting a bail amount.
Law enforcement officers are currently carrying out further investigative measures to identify other individuals who may be involved in organising drug trafficking. The pre-trial investigation is being carried out by investigators from the Main Investigation Directorate of the National Police of Ukraine, with operational support from the Department of Strategic Investigations of the National Police and procedural guidance from prosecutors at the Office of the Prosecutor General.
The penalty under the charged offence provides for up to 12 years’ imprisonment with confiscation of property.
In accordance with the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent until their guilt has been proven in accordance with the law and established by a court conviction.
