Agreed upon in 2006, the Central Asian Regional Information and Coordination Centre (CARICC) for combating the illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and their precursors, was established within the Memorandum of Understanding on sub-regional drug control cooperation dated 4 May 1996 between the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNODC. CARICC was established under the UNODC project TD/RER/H22 “Establishment of the Central Asian Regional Information and Coordination Centre (CARICC)” as part of the “Rainbow” strategy.
Strategically, CARICC is fully supported by UNODC ROCA within the framework of UNODC Programme for Central Asia for 2022–2027 under thematic pillar on Preventing and Countering Transnational Organized Crime.
The membership includes Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan. CARICC also has observer members and collaborates closely with countries outside the region and international organizations such as Interpol, Europol, and the World Customs Organization to strengthen operational cooperation in combating drug trafficking. Member States have authorized representatives (liaison officers) at CARICC to communicate between competent authorities of the State and CARICC.
Mission: To serve as a permanent regional body that assists in organizing, implementing, and coordinating agreed-upon joint international operations, while ensuring the collection, analysis, and secure exchange of intelligence pertaining to cross-border drug crime.
Key Objectives:
CARICC’s consistent operational support has delivered significant, measurable results since its inception. From its establishment in 2006 until 2025, the Centre coordinated a total of 88 Anti-Drug Operations, which included controlled deliveries. These operations led to the seizure of over 7.5 tons of narcotic drugs, alongside the removal of over 62 tons of precursors from illicit markets. Furthermore, the Centre’s efforts resulted in the apprehension of 125 active members of international criminal groups.
CARICC remains a crucial, proven mechanism for collective security. By aligning future, targeted funding with the robust operational strategy adopted in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on 5 December 2025—especially concerning the EWS and synthetic drugs—it will contribute to countering organized crime and illicit drug trafficking in Central Asia.
