Astara: Azerbaijan's customs officials have intercepted and seized more than 207 kilograms of narcotics from a vehicle transporting goods from Iran to Russia. The Astara Customs Department uncovered the illegal substances during a routine inspection of a cargo labeled as "fresh watermelons."

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Press and Public Relations Department of the State Customs Committee reported that the vehicle was traveling through the Republic of Azerbaijan when it was stopped for inspection. Using a stationary X-ray device, customs officials identified suspicious features within the cargo.

A more detailed examination, assisted by a canine service dog, led to the discovery of 16 pallets and 64 packages concealed under the watermelon cargo. The packages contained marijuana with a total weight of 207 kilograms and 620 grams. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.