Online Drug Promotion: Russian Authorities Step Up Monitoring and Interventions
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, social networks and instant messaging services are increasingly used to promote illegal drugs in Russia, a trend noted by TASS. Officials describe the current period as one in which covert advertising for illegal substances circulates more widely through digital platforms, highlighting the need for persistent law enforcement action.
As stated by the Main Directorate for Drug Control of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, known in Russian as GUNK, new digital realities are shaping how illicit drug activity is organized and spread. In response, the agency continues to strengthen traditional anti-drug efforts while launching targeted online initiatives. Among these are the Cyber Team project and the Arctic Cyber Patrol, programs that enlist volunteers and technical experts from Roskomnadzor to monitor and disrupt online trafficking networks. These efforts reflect a broader strategy that combines enforcement with digital monitoring and public awareness campaigns.
In another move, Kursk Governor Roman Starovoit ordered the removal of all articles and posts that advertise drugs within a three day period, underscoring the seriousness with which regional authorities treat online drug promotion. This directive is part of a wider push to curb the spread of illegal substances on the internet and to reduce accessibility through digital channels.
Experts emphasize that online advertising of illegal drugs poses a growing challenge for law enforcement, requiring coordinated actions across federal, regional, and technical agencies. The collaboration among the Ministry of Internal Affairs, GUNK, Roskomnadzor, and regional administrations reflects an integrated approach to identify, disrupt, and deter online drug promotion, while educating the public about the risks and consequences of illicit drug use. This multi-layer strategy aims to close gaps between traditional street-level enforcement and the rapid, evolving nature of online activity. Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs.