Nigerian national charged with possessing drugs for distribution

LRT reports that a criminal case against a Nigerian national accused of illegally possessing narcotic and psychotropic substances for distribution has been referred to the Vilnius City District Court.

According to investigators, the man, identified by his initials as A. E. A., had an invalid temporary residence permit in Lithuania. He allegedly ordered a shipment of narcotic and psychotropic substances through an online messaging app and paid for it in cryptocurrency.

During a search of his home in April, investigators found various packages containing plant-based substances, electronic scales, packaging materials, vacuum bags and a vacuum-sealing device.

Experts determined that the seized substances included more than 198 grams of cannabis and more than 11 grams of cannabis resin. Various mixtures containing tetrahydrocannabinol were also identified.

Prosecutors said the Nigerian national partly admits guilt. He acknowledges illegally possessing the drugs but denies intending to distribute them.

He faces charges of illegally acquiring, possessing, transporting or sending narcotic or psychotropic substances with the intention of selling or otherwise distributing them, as well as selling or otherwise distributing such substances.

If convicted, he could face between two and eight years in prison.