INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The volume of cocaine seized by Russian authorities has surged since the country launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022,
earlier levels, according to the Moscow-based outlet.The surge is linked to the rerouting of international drug trafficking channels
become a key transit hub for cocaine destined for European markets.This change coincides with a 24% increase in global cocaine production in
2022, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
The oversupply in global markets has driven traffickers to explore new routes.In 2024, Russia reported record cocaine confiscations, seizing
This included a 1.2-ton shipment intercepted at St
methods, increasing their reliance on ground transportation in addition to maritime routes.Concealment techniques have become more
sophisticated, with fruit shipments, particularly bananas, being a favored method
These perishable goods are often transported in sealed, temperature-controlled containers, which are rarely inspected to avoid spoilage
Traffickers have also hidden cocaine in shipments of coffee, cocoa and porcelain.Despite the significant influx, most of the cocaine
entering Russia is bound for other markets, with criminal groups using the country as an entry point into Europe
high cost, priced at 10,000-14,000 rubles ($100-140) per gram, making it uncompetitive against cheaper synthetic drugs like mephedrone,
which dominate the market.However, the growing volume of cocaine transiting through Russia has spurred a rise in wholesale trade and
associated criminal activities.Darknet platforms have become a primary venue for wholesale transactions, while cities such as St
efforts to combat the trend, including the shutdown of major darknet platforms, in response to the escalating challenge.This article was
originally published by bne IntelliNews.
