Comprehensive measures to combat drug crime are ongoing. Under the procedural guidance of regional and district prosecutors, in cooperation with units of the criminal police and investigators of the National Police in the regions, the second phase of the nationwide special operation "Gentlemen" has been implemented since June 20. Its goal is to identify and eliminate illegal plantations of narcotic plants, as well as to expose and neutralize criminal groups involved in the drug business.

Law enforcement officers conducted 156 searches in 23 regions, including in Kyiv. They seized over 740 kg of cannabis in the form of finished products and 15 kg of a-PVP (a psychotropic substance known as "salt"). They also destroyed more than 15 thousand cannabis and opium poppy plants. In addition, law enforcement officers seized weapons and ammunition, special equipment for growing plants (hoses, pumps, fertilizers), as well as products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – cookies and butter.

As part of the special operation, 36 individuals were detained under Article 208 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine. 38 individuals were notified of suspicion under Part 2, 3 of Article 307 and Part 2 of Article 310 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. After the completion of examinations, the issue of bringing other participants to justice will be resolved.

Thanks to the conducted special operation and the elimination of drug plantations, law enforcement prevented approximately 3.7 tons of prohibited substances from reaching "consumers." Their sale on the "black" market could have brought criminal groups over 185 million hryvnias in illegal profits.

For information on the first phase of the special operation "Gentlemen" read here.