Access to drugs has been reduced by approximately 8 times, both in physical availability and financial terms, thanks to effective efforts of Ministry of Internal Affairs [MIA]. Such a statement made today the Prime Minister of Georgia.

"I want to address issues concerning public security, drugs, organized crime, corruption. Over the past few months, the Government, particularly the MIA, has been working very effectively in this area. In the last 3 months, 156 individuals have been prosecuted for drug trafficking, including major drug dealers who have been arrested. Notably, 226 people have been detained, charged for possessing large quantities of narcotics [unprecedented figure for Georgia].

We faced concerning trends in drug use and distribution, which required decisive action. The statistics I am presenting today reflect the success of these measures. As a result, the availability of drugs has been reduced by about 8 times, both in terms of physical access and financial reach, a testament to the effective activities of the MIA.

Significant quantities of narcotics have also been seized, including a remarkable 298 kg of heroin. Recently, more than 34,500 methadone pills were confiscated, which is another unprecedented volume. The fight against drugs remains one of our highest priorities", - said Irakli Kobakhidze.