According to Shanghai Observer reported on June 26, Chinese police have revealed a concerning trend in drug crimes: the use of Telegram to facilitate communication and cryptocurrencies, notably Bitcoin, for payments. This emerging method has raised significant concerns about online drug trafficking and the involvement of young individuals in drug-related activities. As authorities intensify their efforts to combat these illicit practices, a recent case sheds light on the intricacies and dangers of this new form of drug trade.
The police in Shanghai disclosed the successful dismantling of a drug gang involved in the sale, cultivation, processing, and distribution of narcotics. The criminals exploited the anonymity provided by overseas social software and conducted their operations with zero contact, making it incredibly challenging for law enforcement to investigate and apprehend them.
The illicit drug in question was LSD, commonly known as “stamps” due to its absorption onto small pieces of paper with unique patterns. These stamps, which are considerably smaller than a fingernail, contain a potent hallucinogen that surpasses the effects of traditional drugs like marijuana. The dealers employed a method known as the “buried bag,” wherein the drugs were concealed in plastic bags, securely hidden in various locations, and subsequently communicated to buyers via photographs and location coordinates. Buyers would then retrieve the concealed packages and complete the transactions by paying with virtual currencies.
The police managed to crack the case by posing as buyers and tracing the suspicious activities surrounding the pickup points. After an extensive investigation, they identified a suspect known as Zhao, who was responsible for burying the drugs at multiple locations. Zhao’s arrest revealed that he had meticulously recorded the hidden locations and shared them with buyers during transactions. Through further interrogation, Zhao revealed that he obtained the drugs from a family in Anhui province.
The investigation led the authorities to Shi, the leader of the criminal gang, who relied on family members to cultivate and process marijuana. The gang operated in a highly professional manner, using advanced techniques like greenhouse cultivation, sun lamps, and consultations with experts to ensure optimal conditions for cannabis growth. Following a joint operation between Shanghai and Anhui police forces, eight suspects, including Shi and Chen, were arrested. The authorities seized a significant quantity of cannabis products, raw cannabis plants, processing equipment, and dismantled four cannabis plantation dens.
This case highlights the growing prevalence of online drug trafficking and the use of encrypted communication channels and virtual currencies to facilitate transactions. Dark web platforms and overseas social applications have become crucial conduits for drug-related activities, complicating the detection and prevention efforts of law enforcement agencies. Drug traffickers employ code words, signs, and symbols to attract knowledgeable buyers, while constantly evolving their methods to evade detection.
To combat the evolving landscape of drug crimes, Shanghai police have been actively conducting online inspections, offline investigations, and strengthening their analysis of criminal methods. They have successfully cracked 30 online drug-related cases, leading to the arrest of 37 suspects. While these efforts have resulted in a decline in drug supply and consumption, law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant to stay ahead of the ever-changing tactics employed by drug traffickers.
As the battle against drug crimes continues, authorities must prioritize staying updated on the latest trends, collaborating across multiple police units, and employing cutting-edge technologies to effectively combat the growing menace of online drug trafficking. The protection of society, particularly the vulnerable youth population, is paramount, and concerted efforts are needed to dismantle these criminal networks and provide assistance and support to those affected by drug addiction.
Source: https://azcoinnews.com/chinese-police-crack-down-on-online-drug-trade-involving-telegram-and-bitcoin.html
