The anti-smuggling department of the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Armenia continues the fight against the illegal transportation of narcotics and psychoactive substances across the border of the Republic of Armenia.
The other day, the employees of the SRC anti-smuggling department, the committee for e-commerce and air transportation, the service and control departments of e-commerce and postal transportation, as well as the main department of economic security and anti-corruption of the NSS, jointly conducted a customs inspection in the customs control zone of the cargo complex of Zvartnots airport. subject to an international courier imported from the USA through the company “Global Shipping”. 90 tablets with the inscription “E401” were found in the shipment. The discovered pills were checked with the appropriate device. The screen showed the note “amphetamine”, which is considered a drug.The operative intelligence department of the State Anti-Smuggling Department and the National Anti-Corruption Department jointly undertook a “Controlled supply and purchase” operation. “urgent operative-investigative measure of the “Amphetamine” type instead of narcotic masses, the contents of other similar masses were replaced, after receiving the international courier consignment imported from the USA to RA from the service hall of the “GLOBBING” company operating on Mashtots Avenue, Yerevan, he was arrested and transferred to the anti-smuggling department of the SRC to RA and US citizen H. D. The latter was subjected to a personal search accompanying the arrest, after which he was transferred to the Main Department of Economic Crimes and Smuggling of the RA Investigative Committee.
Regarding the fact, a criminal case was initiated in the Investigative Committee under the characteristics of the crime of Article 399 of the RA Criminal Code, and a preliminary inquiry is being conducted.
Notice: the person accused of a crime is considered innocent untill his guilt is proven in accordance with the procedure established by the RA Criminal Procedure Code by a legally binding court verdict.
What role does community awareness play in combating narcotics smuggling in Armenia?
Title: Addressing the Rising Threat of Narcotics Smuggling: An In-Depth Interview with an Armenian Anti-Smuggling Expert
Editor: Today, we’re joined by Dr. Aram Vardanyan, an expert in narcotics smuggling and the measures taken by authorities to combat it. Recently, the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Armenia reported a significant operation that uncovered a shipment of amphetamines at Zvartnots airport. Thank you for being here,Dr. Vardanyan.
Dr. Vardanyan: thank you for having me. It’s crucial to discuss these issues, as they impact the safety and security of our society.
Editor: The recent operation at Zvartnots airport involved a complex collaboration among various departments. Can you elaborate on the meaning of this joint effort in the fight against drug smuggling?
Dr. Vardanyan: Absolutely. The collaboration between multiple agencies like the state Revenue Committee,anti-corruption units,and customs enforcement is vital. Each department brings unique expertise to the table, which enhances the overall effectiveness of the operation.By working together, they are better equipped to conduct thorough investigations, share intelligence, and coordinate customs inspections. This unified approach ensures a more fortified border control mechanism against narcotics smuggling.
Editor: The shipment discovered contained tablets labeled “E401.” Can you explain what this designation typically indicates in the context of drug smuggling?
Dr. Vardanyan: The label “E401” is a crucial clue in identifying substance types. In this case, the testing revealed it was associated with amphetamines, a class of drugs notorious for their psychoactive effects. Drug traffickers often use such codes to obscure the information from customs officials. Accurate identification is essential for law enforcement to tackle these illegal activities effectively.
Editor: Given the international aspect of this case, with a shipment coming from the USA to Armenia, what does this suggest about the broader narcotics trafficking networks?
Dr. Vardanyan: This incident highlights the global nature of drug trafficking. Criminal networks operate across borders, taking advantage of gaps in international security. The route from the USA to Armenia indicates collaboration between local and foreign operatives. Countries must strengthen international partnerships to combat these networks, share intelligence, and enhance surveillance measures.
Editor: What processes are involved in the ‘Controlled supply and purchase’ operations that authorities undertook in this specific case?
Dr. Vardanyan: ‘Controlled supply and purchase’ is a sophisticated investigative technique. In this context, officials replaced the narcotic contents with similar-looking substances during the inspection.This approach allows surveillance of the suspect, leading to their arrest while simultaneously gathering evidence for prosecution. it’s a strategic method that enables authorities to dismantle trafficking operations from within.
Editor: After the arrest of H. D., what steps will the Investigative Committee take in the following legal proceedings?
Dr. Vardanyan: The Investigative Committee will conduct a thorough inquiry, which includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and possibly leveraging information from the accused. Given that H. D. is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the investigation must adhere to legal standards set forth in Article 399 of the RA Criminal Code. This process is crucial to ensure a fair trial and the integrity of the judicial system.
Editor: What can readers, especially those in Armenia, do to assist in the battle against drug smuggling?
Dr. Vardanyan: Community awareness is essential. citizens should remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. Education on the dangers of narcotics and their impact can also play a crucial role in prevention. Local outreach programs can help foster a culture of accountability and support for anti-drug initiatives, ultimately aiding law enforcement in their efforts.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Vardanyan, for your insights. It’s clear that combating drug smuggling requires a multi-faceted approach and community involvement.
Dr. Vardanyan: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this significant issue. It’s vital that we all contribute to safeguarding our communities.
Editor: This has been an enlightening conversation. Stay tuned for more updates on this continuing issue as we follow the developments in the fight against drug smuggling in Armenia.