Police Conducting Investigations into Drug-dispensing Machines in Several Towns

Bratislava, 20 March (TASR) - The police are conducting criminal investigations into vending machines that dispense psychoactive substances in several towns, and they've recently seized several such machines during raids, spokesperson for the Police Corps Presidium Roman Hajek told TASR on Friday, adding that investigations are underway concerning the crime of promoting drug addiction in Poprad (Presov region), Banska Bystrica, Ruzomberok (Zilina region) and Zilina. "In 2025 and 2026, the police have recorded several cases related to the use of vending machines containing psychoactive substances. In 2025, there were 12 cases, with the highest number in Nitra and Banska Bystrica regions. In 2026, we recorded ten cases, with the highest number in Presov and Nitra regions. "A total of 22 cases were handled during this period," said Hajek. The police noted that since 2022, they've seen an increase in the distribution of synthetic and semi-synthetic cannabinoids, such as HHC, HHC-P, and HHC-O. "These substances were often available from vending machines located mainly in shopping centres, with prices ranging between €10-30," stated Hajek. The spokesperson explained that, from a regional perspective, there is higher demand for more expensive types of drugs, such as cocaine or certain new psychoactive substances, in more-developed areas, such as Bratislava and regional capitals. In less-developed regions, demand is dominated by cheaper and more readily available substances. Hajek pointed out that the drugs scene is changing rapidly. "In addition to traditional distribution methods, such as so-called 'dead drop' locations, offenders are increasingly using encrypted communications, cryptocurrencies and various online platforms. Postal and courier services are also being abused, with packages often addressed to people who are unaware of them. Narcotic and psychotropic substances are frequently concealed in sweets or other everyday products, for example," he said. am/df