The National Information and Analytical Center for Drug Control of Uzbekistan has released alarming statistics regarding drug-related crimes in the country. The Center's report indicates that out of the 8,681 crimes identified in 2022, every second offense was committed by the younger generation. The data was disclosed during an event organized by the State Security Service on June 26, which coincided with the "International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking."
The report revealed a range of criminal activities associated with illegal drug handling. Among the identified crimes, 2,513 cases were related to drug trafficking, 387 involved smuggling, and 1,711 were associated with the cultivation of plants containing narcotic substances. Additionally, law enforcement agencies recorded 3,156 crimes involving the intent to transport drugs, 864 cases of illegal circulation of potent drugs, 40 instances of enticing consumption, 6 cases of violation of production or use regulations, and 4 cases related to illegal introduction into circulation. organized drug crimes.
In 2022, judicial authorities considered 5,097 criminal cases connected to illegal drug trafficking, resulting in the sentencing of 5,863 individuals involved in these offenses.
"The increasing number of youth involved in crimes is alarming. In 2018, youth accounted for 19.1% of drug-related crimes, which rose to 22.6% in 2019, 24.8% in 2020, 21.6% in 2021, and reached 25.3% in 2022,” the National Drug Control Information and Analysis Center’s data indicated.
Moreover, in the capital city, Tashkent, the situation is even more disconcerting, with young adults responsible for a staggering 47.6% of drug-related offenses. Out of the 1,486 cases reported in Tashkent, 580 cases were committed by individuals classified as young offenders. Currently, the statistical information regarding the year 2023 have not been provided.
As the country observes the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, it serves as a reminder of the need to tackle this escalating issue.
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