The law enforcement agencies of Ukraine and the Republic of Poland conducted a large-scale international special operation, as a result of which a transnational organized group was uncovered that had established the production and distribution of synthetic drugs on an industrial scale.

Under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General, it was established that the criminal group included two citizens of Ukraine and a citizen of Latvia, who organized a network of underground laboratories in both countries.

As part of the special operation, a laboratory in Poland was shut down, where methadone in crystalline form was produced. In addition, eight multi-laboratories were dismantled in Poland and Ukraine, where particularly dangerous narcotic substances - methadone, mephedrone, and Alpha-PVP - were simultaneously manufactured.

In total, 38 searches were conducted at locations for the production and storage of drugs, precursors, chemical reagents, and equipment used for synthesis. Large batches of finished narcotic substances, precursors, laboratory equipment, weapons, communication devices, and cash were seized.

Three individuals have been notified of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 307 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal production and distribution of narcotic substances committed by an organized group). All have been taken into custody. The indictment has been sent to court.

Operational support was provided by employees of the Department for Combating Drug Crime of the National Police of Ukraine. Special police units, explosive ordnance disposal services, rescuers, and KORD units were involved in the investigative actions in several regions.

Note: according to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime and cannot be subjected to criminal punishment until their guilt is proven in a lawful manner and established by a court verdict.