A new drug on the market: Ukraine exposes a kratom distribution network that is spreading around the world
9 October 18:09
In Ternopil region, law enforcement officers exposed a group of 29 people who organized large-scale sales of a new drug, kratom. This was reported by the Prosecutor General’s Office, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
- The network members smuggled it across the state border.
- Sales took place through Internet platforms, Telegram channels, delivery services, as well as in gyms and catering establishments.
- The main customers were young people.
According to the investigation, the group managed to sell up to 10 tons of the substance worth over UAH 60 million.
During the special operation, 78 searches were conducted in 14 regions. 21 participants were detained, several of them at an international checkpoint.
What is kratom?
- Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa ) is a tropical plant from Southeast Asia.
- Its active ingredient, mitragynine, acts as an opioid, but can be ten times stronger than morphine.
- In small doses, it stimulates, in large doses, it causes severe dependence.
The leaves are used to make powder, tea, or capsules. Some users perceive it as a “legal substitute” for drugs, but the health consequences are often devastating.
In November 2024, the Ukrainian government added kratom and mitragynine to the official list of narcotic drugs.
How it is spreading in the world
- In Southeast Asia, kratom has traditionally been used as a painkiller, but now it has gained popularity in the West.
- In the United States, there has been a sharp increase in poisonings and deaths related to its use. According to the CDC, in 2016-2017, it was involved in more than 150 deaths.
- In Europe, several countries, including Germany and Denmark, have banned the sale of kratom. At the same time, in the UK, its sale is in the “gray zone,” which creates loopholes for illegal businesses.
- Law enforcement officials point out that its distribution is often associated with online sales and deliveries, just as it was found in Ukraine.
Why it is dangerous
- Kratom can cause severe physical and psychological dependence.
- There are proven cases of liver damage, cardiovascular complications, and fatal overdoses.
- A particularly vulnerable group is young people who perceive it as a “safe alternative” to drugs.
It is worth reminding that its medical use as a painkiller has been discussed several times in the world, but due to the high risks of addiction, most countries have restricted its circulation.
In Ukraine, after being included in the list of narcotic substances, its sale is punishable under Article 307 of the Criminal Code.
