SYSTEM OF STATE BODIES AND THEIR POWERS IN COMBATING THE ILLEGAL TRAFFIC IN SPECIAL CATEGORIES OF STRONG-ACTING SUBSTANCES

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive scientific analysis of the system of state bodies and their powers in combating the illegal trafficking of special categories of potent substances in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The study examines the legal framework governing this sphere, including constitutional provisions, criminal and administrative legislation, as well as sectoral regulatory acts. Particular attention is paid to the role and functions of key state institutions such as internal affairs bodies, the prosecutor’s office, customs authorities, the State Security Service, and healthcare institutions. The article highlights the importance of prosecutorial supervision in ensuring the rule of law and legality in the activities of law enforcement agencies. It also emphasizes the significance of operational-search activities in detecting and preventing crimes related to potent substances, which are often committed covertly and involve organized and transnational criminal networks. Furthermore, the research underlines the necessity of effective inter-agency cooperation, coordination mechanisms, and information exchange among competent authorities. International experience is also analyzed to demonstrate the importance of establishing specialized coordination centers and strengthening cross-border cooperation. The author concludes that improving the legal framework, ensuring clear distribution of powers, enhancing institutional coordination, and strengthening prosecutorial oversight are essential factors for increasing the effectiveness of combating illicit trafficking in potent substances and ensuring public safety and public health. Currently, in the world and in our country, the illegal circulation of certain categories of potent substances is one of the factors posing a serious threat to public safety, public health, and the law enforcement system; the illegal production, storage, transportation, and distribution of such substances are inextricably linked to other types of crime, especially the development of organized crime and transnational crime. Keywords: illegal trafficking, potent substances, state bodies, law enforcement, prosecutor’s supervision, public safety, public health, organized crime, transnational crime, customs control, operational-search activities, inter-agency cooperation, legal framework, crime prevention, Uzbekistan President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev called drug crime a new global threat to all of humanity and emphasized the need to strengthen effective legal mechanisms to combat this evil. According to the president, "it is time to introduce into our national legislation norms aimed at preventing such threats, ruthlessly combating them, and eradicating such a vice at its root" (i.e., the need to strengthen the fight against crimes related to the illicit trafficking of a special category of potent substances).