Uzbek customs officials have successfully dismantled a major regional drug trafficking network known as 'Deadpool,' which operated extensively through the Telegram messaging app. This significant operation, carried out through coordinated efforts in August and September 2025, led to the arrest of several key distributors and exposed one of Central Asia's most widespread online narcotics markets.
The 'Deadpool' Network's Reach
The 'Deadpool' network had been active since 2017, establishing itself as a prominent darknet drug marketplace. Over its years of operation, it amassed a following of approximately 4,000 subscribers, facilitating the illicit trade of synthetic drugs across the region. The network's reliance on Telegram allowed it to maintain a degree of anonymity and reach a broad user base, making its dismantling a critical step in combating online drug sales.
Coordinated Operations Lead to Key Arrests
The crackdown involved multiple targeted operations. On August 31, in the Khodjaobod district of Andijan region, authorities apprehended a suspect in possession of 602 grams of alpha-PVP, a synthetic stimulant. Investigations revealed that this individual had been associated with the 'Deadpool' network since 2023 and was responsible for distributing nearly 50 kilograms of synthetic drugs over a two-year period, with the substances reportedly smuggled from Kyrgyzstan.
A subsequent major operation on September 10 in the Zangiota district of Tashkent region resulted in the detention of two additional suspects. These individuals were caught receiving a package containing 492.2 grams of clephedrone. Authorities determined that both had been active within the network for at least six months, during which they had distributed over 12,500 doses of synthetic drugs. The network primarily utilized 'zakladchiki,' or low-level dealers, who concealed drugs in public locations such as parks and areas near educational institutions across various districts of Tashkent and Chirchik. Each primary distributor reportedly managed a sub-network of at least ten 'zakladchiki'.
Broader Regional Crackdown and Ongoing Investigations
The dismantling of the 'Deadpool' network is part of a broader, intensified regional effort to combat synthetic drug trafficking. Criminal cases have been initiated against the arrested individuals, and investigations are currently ongoing to uncover further connections and dismantle the network entirely. This Uzbek operation aligns with similar efforts in neighboring countries; for instance, Kazakhstan's Interior Minister Yerzhan Sadenov reported that authorities in Kazakhstan seized 6.4 tons of narcotics, including 570 kilograms of synthetic substances, during the first half of 2025. Kazakhstan's efforts also included the closure of 103 illegal drug laboratories, the blocking of over 17,000 drug-related websites, and the arrest of 474 suspects, disrupting 63 smuggling operations, including those involving Telegram channel administrators.
5 Comments
Donatello
Excellent work! Every network dismantled makes our streets safer.
Leonardo
Arrests are good, but what about the root causes of drug use and trafficking?
Michelangelo
This crackdown is certainly a victory against those exploiting Telegram for illicit trade, yet the sheer volume of drugs distributed and the use of 'zakladchiki' near schools is alarming. We need to do more than just react to existing networks.
Leonardo
Another headline, but the problem persists. This won't stop the flow.
Michelangelo
Finally, some real action protecting our communities from these dealers.