(12 February 2026 | Source: press service of the Almaty city prosecutor's office)
In Almaty, police officers coordinated by the prosecutor's office of the Medeu District identified and shut down the operation of an organised criminal group involved in the production and sale of psychotropic substances.
CLANDESTINE LABORATORIES IN RESIDENTIAL HOUSES
According to the investigation, the organiser led a stable organised criminal group (OCG) that operated 3 underground drug laboratories set up in private residential houses in Almaty. These laboratories produced psychotropic substances daily for subsequent sale.
SWIFT SUPPRESSION AND ARRESTS
During operational and investigative activities, the laboratories were shut down. 7 members of the group were detained. Psychotropic substances, including mephedrone, were seized from illicit circulation.
COURT DECISIONS
Following the pre-trial investigation, the organiser was placed on an international wanted list. The remaining OCG members were found guilty by the court and sentenced to 16 years' imprisonment.