Uzbek authorities have dismantled a major transnational drug trafficking network in Tashkent, detaining 14 suspected members and seizing 2.5 kilograms of the synthetic drug Alpha-PVP - an amount estimated at around 71,400 individual doses.

The operation began after law enforcement officers stopped a Chevrolet Onix in the Yangikhayot district. The car was being driven by a 21-year-old third-year university student, and officers reportedly found 500 grams of Alpha-PVP inside, according to uznews.

After his arrest, the student provided information that helped investigators identify other suspected members of the network. Further operations were carried out across Chilanzar, Yunusabad, Yangikhayot and Bektemir districts.

According to Uzbekistan’s Interior Ministry, the suspects were connected to a transnational criminal organization whose activities in Tashkent were divided among several groups.

Seven suspects reportedly acted as “warehouse workers,” storing and packaging the drugs. Another six distributed them through online drug shops and Telegram bots, using hidden “drop-off” locations to deliver orders.

Investigators said many of those involved were young people, including university students. The network also had its own system of internal control, with so-called “athletes” tasked with collecting debts and preventing members from stealing drugs.

One of the suspected leaders of the network was identified as a Russian citizen. Uzbek authorities said he was detained by Russian law enforcement officers.

The operation was conducted jointly by Uzbekistan’s Interior Ministry, State Security Service and Customs Committee, together with law enforcement agencies from other countries.

A criminal case has been opened over illegal drug trafficking, and the suspects have been remanded in custody.