International gang on trial for smuggling red phosphorus to produce methamphetamine

The Regional Court in Ostrava has begun the main trial of an international criminal group accused of smuggling 400 kilograms of red phosphorus into the Czech Republic and Poland. The chemical is a key precursor used in the production of methamphetamine.

Prosecutor Michal Togner stated that the seized amount was intended to produce more than one ton of methamphetamine. At an estimated black market value of 1,000 CZK per gram, the potential drug value exceeds 1.2 billion CZK.

The group, consisting of more than seven members, allegedly sourced the phosphorus from Ukraine. Four defendants, aged 27 to 72, are currently facing trial; three have pleaded guilty, while one denies the charges. The investigation revealed that some members continued their criminal activities while already serving sentences for other drug-related offenses involving precursors. Additionally, a Ukrainian accomplice faces fraud charges for allegedly attempting to supply cement instead of red phosphorus.