Police officers from the Gospić Police Station have concluded an investigation into a 19-year-old male from the Gospić area, who is accused of multiple criminal offenses, including illegal possession of weapons and explosive materials as well as drugs. This case highlights growing concerns about illegal possession and use of banned substances in Croatia.

The incident occurred on September 8, 2024, at 3 PM when police officers from the Ličko-senjska Police Administration's mobile team stopped a car with Zagreb registration plates in the Karlobag area. The driver, a 19-year-old from Gospić, voluntarily surrendered 19.6 grams of marijuana to the police, which was seized. An indictment has been filed against him for offenses related to the Drug Abuse Prevention Act.

However, that was not all. During a detailed search of the vehicle, the police found nine pieces of explosive materials. These items were immediately seized, and the young man now faces criminal charges for suspected illegal production, acquisition, and possession of weapons and explosive substances. This case serves as a reminder of similar incidents worldwide, where young people are often involved in possession of weapons and drugs, which can have severe legal consequences, including long-term prison sentences.

Increase in cases of illegal possession of weapons and drugs

According to data from other cases around the world, the combination of drug and weapon possession is becoming an increasingly common phenomenon. For example, in the United States, police have seized large quantities of weapons and narcotics in various operations, with suspects often being young individuals like this young man from Gospić. In Oregon, a recent raid uncovered illegal marijuana cultivation alongside the possession of weapons and explosive substances, illustrating a global trend in rising illegal activities related to drugs and weapons. In that case, the police found hundreds of illegally grown marijuana plants and several pieces of weaponry, including firearms and explosive devices.

These incidents highlight the importance of international cooperation in combating smuggling and illegal possession of weapons and drugs, as well as the need for stronger control within local communities. In Croatia, there is an increase in drug seizures, and the number of criminal charges for weapon possession is also rising, especially in regions where smuggling routes are available.

Consequences and legal implications

Illegal possession of weapons and drugs are serious criminal offenses that carry severe penalties. In the case of young offenders, such as this 19-year-old from Gospić, the legal system often combines criminal charges with rehabilitation programs, but such cases frequently end with long prison sentences if explosive devices or firearms are involved. In a similar situation, a young man in Houston faced charges of illegal possession of weapons and drugs, sparking public debates about security risks and possible penalties.

In Croatia, charges for such offenses automatically lead to criminal prosecution, and if guilt is proven, the perpetrator can face a long prison sentence. Legal consequences largely depend on the quantity of seized items, the offender's intent, and their criminal or offense history.