Kazakhstan National Arrested for Smuggling ‘Zombie Drug’ into South Korea
A man from Kazakhstan was arrested in South Korea for smuggling mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant known as the “zombie drug.” He faces charges under the Narcotics Control Act, while an accomplice is still at large. The investigation revealed a growing trend in drug smuggling involving foreign nationals, leading to increased enforcement measures by customs authorities.
A Kazakh man in his 20s was apprehended by South Korean customs for smuggling mephedrone, a potent synthetic stimulant colloquially referred to as the “zombie drug.” The Korea Customs Service’s Incheon International Airport branch reported this incident on Wednesday, charging the individual under the Narcotics Control Act and seeking an accomplice who is also from Kazakhstan.
Mephedrone is a psychoactive substance recognized for its harmful effects, particularly in regions like Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. Consumption of high doses can result in severe agitation and violent behaviors, contributing to its alarming nickname due to reported cases of users exhibiting aggressive actions, including biting others. The seized amount, totaling 61.5 grams (2.2 ounces), is estimated to provide about 2,050 individual doses.
The investigation began in October when customs detected the drugs hidden within candles inside an express delivery originating from Ukraine. The authorities executed a controlled delivery operation but faced challenges as the suspects frequently altered their delivery locations and contact information. A pivotal lead stemmed from a credit card receipt discovered on one suspect, coupled with surveillance footage from a convenience store that facilitated the identification of the smuggler.
The suspect was apprehended at Gimpo International Airport just prior to his departure from the country, while his accomplice managed to escape back to Kazakhstan. Further investigations revealed that the suspect was residing in Korea unlawfully and had coordinated drug smuggling operations with his partner via the encrypted messaging platform Telegram, evidently targeting areas densely populated with foreign residents for distribution.
Authorities noted that the individual had a history of using drugs such as mephedrone and MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, in nightlife settings across Korea. A customs representative emphasized that the trend of drug smuggling involving foreign nationals is on the rise, stating, “We will strengthen drug inspections at entry points and do our utmost to crack down on smuggling networks.”
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of drug smuggling, particularly involving synthetic substances like mephedrone, in South Korea. The arrest of the Kazakh suspect demonstrates law enforcement’s commitment to combatting illegal drug trafficking, especially among foreign nationals. With measures to enhance inspections and a proactive approach to interception, authorities aim to mitigate the risks posed by such dangerous drugs in society.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
