OSCE supports Kyrgyzstan in tackling trafficking in illicit drugs

A three-day online training course on “Strengthening Capacities of the Service on Countering Illicit Drug Trafficking of the Ministry of Interior of the Kyrgyz Republic in Combating the Spread of Illicit Drugs Facilitated by the Internet” concluded on 15 December 2021 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Fifteen representatives from the Service on Countering Illicit Drug Trafficking of the Ministry of Interior of the Kyrgyz Republic developed techniques in identifying internet websites with malicious content and improved their understanding of the dark web. Participants also enhanced their knowledge about the role of cryptocurrencies in drug-related crimes and explored anti-money laundering methods.

The OSCE Transnational Threat Department in co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and the Siberian Law Institute of the Ministry of the Interior of Russia organized the training course.

“The Siberian Law Institute has a long-standing history of hosting anti-drug training courses for Kyrgyz officials and deploying instructors directly to the country,” said Dmitry Kim, Police Major-General and Head of the Institute. “Our joint actions and exchange of best practices, including in on-line meetings and seminars, will contribute to the promotion of counter-narcotics activities,” he concluded.

“Focusing on countering trafficking in illicit drugs on the internet is very important given that illegal sales of drugs on the internet are increasing in Kyrgyzstan. We should learn best international practices in addressing this threat and apply skills and knowledge within our country and region,” said Aidar Shigaev, Police Lieutenant-Colonel and Head of the Organizational and Analytical Department of the Service on Countering Illicit Drug Trafficking of the Ministry of Interior of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The event was organized upon the request of Kyrgyzstan and in line with the 2012 OSCE Concept on Combating the Threat of Illicit Drugs and the Diversion of Chemical Precursors and the 2015 OSCE Ministerial Council Declaration on the OSCE’s Activities in Support of Global Efforts in Tackling the World Drug Problem.