Russian narcotics police and Federal Security Service authorities have arrested an air traffic controller on charges of using illegal drugs, regional authorities said on Thursday.
The dispatcher, 25, who was responsible for controlling air traffic at Vladivostok Airport in the Far East, was arrested while on his way home from work after smoking a cannabis joint.
"Controlling air traffic under the influence of narcotics could lead to an accident with heavy consequences as psycho-active components of the drugs remain in the body's system for a long period of time after use," a report on the incident read.
The dispatcher was arrested for driving while under the influence of narcotics, as well as being charged with the illegal possession of drugs.
According to scientific research, cannabis-based narcotics have been proven to delay reactions, hinder coordination and lead to a loss in concentration.