Ukraine’s National Police stated on Wednesday that the suspects successfully manufactured and distributed over 20 kilograms of psychotropic substances monthly, raking in some 10 million hryvnias (US$256,048) in profits. If convicted, they could face up to 12 years in prison each.
The gang, operating in a war-torn country, shielded its illicit drug production by utilizing drones equipped with sophisticated video surveillance systems.
According to police reports, the criminal organization led by a 35-year-old was responsible for the production and distribution of so-called “master stashes” across the region.
Additionally, a 26-year-old lab assistant was responsible for manufacturing amphetamines in the gang’s laboratories, while other members of the group were assigned to packaging the drugs and preparing them for distribution.
The suspects used proceeds from drug trafficking to purchase luxury real estate and high-end vehicles, including a Porsche 718 Boxster, an Alfa Romeo Stelvio, and a BMW M8, among others.
During the operation, Ukrainian police shut down two drug labs and carried out over 35 searches of homes, vehicles, and garages. They seized five kilograms of amphetamines, along with computers, bank cards, 300 thousand hryvnias ($7,690) in cash, equipment for making and packaging drugs, five vehicles, and a pistol.
