Why is Iran often mentioned? Azerbaijan’s Interior Ministry and border service drug operations over two years

Azerbaijan’s Interior Ministry and border service have consistently reported drug operations over the past two years, frequently highlighting connections to the Islamic Republic of Iran. Analysis of data from January 2024 to December 2025 reveals a pattern of seizures and arrests, often involving large consignments of narcotics – ranging from 10 to 50 kilograms – and the use of methods like drones to cross the border. These operations frequently involve Iranian nationals.

Authorities, lacking official statistics, compiled a monitoring database using ministry and border service press releases, State Statistics Committee data, and media reports. In 2024, a total of 4 tonnes 714 kg of narcotics were seized, alongside 283 kg prevented from entering the country. 2 tonnes 51 kg of “relevant substances” were confiscated from 466 online drug sales, and 108 criminal groups linked to drug trafficking were dismantled.

Between January and June 2024, 18,518 crimes were recorded, with 5,674 (30.6%) related to illegal narcotics. 4,144.4 kg of narcotics, psychotropic substances, and precursors were seized. For the first half of 2025, crime rates decreased by 17.7%, with 4,256.0 kg of substances seized – a 2.7% increase from the previous year.

Overall, drug offences fell by 18% in the first half of 2025, with 2 tonnes 958 kg seized. The State Border Service (SBS) plays a key role, frequently reporting discoveries like a rubber boat carrying narcotics near the Araz River, or joint operations on the Caspian coast involving coast guard and border vessels. In 2024, SBS operations increasingly focused on intercepted drones transporting drugs from Iran, with detailed technical analyses of the methods employed.

By the end of 2025, operations scaled up again, with authorities blaming Iran for supplying the drugs. Azerbaijan, a key partner in diversifying Europe’s energy supplies, remains a focal point due to this ongoing drug flow from iran.

Topics: #azerbaijan #drug #iran