Europol successfully dismantled a major criminal network. The operation, which lasted three years and included international cooperation, ended with the arrest of 40 people and the confiscation of 8 tons of cocaine, BNR reported, News.bg reports.
The Hague-based police organization cooperates with law enforcement agencies from various countries, including Brazil, Spain and Turkey. The network, run by individuals based in Turkey and Dubai, has been dealt a significant blow with these latest arrests.
The latest phase of the operation began in August 2023, when the Spanish Civil Guard seized 700 kg of cocaine near the Canary Islands on a vessel operated by Croatian and Italian nationals. This breach led to the sharing of important data between international police forces.
Through this joint effort, the masterminds behind attempted drug trafficking were identified, resulting in the arrest of 40 suspects in six countries.
Two high-ranking members of the cartel from Croatia were detained in Istanbul in late 2023
Traffickers have transported illicit substances from South America to logistics points in West Africa and the Canary Islands. From these centers, the cocaine is then distributed to various European countries, including Belgium, Croatia, Germany, Italy and Spain, for further distribution across the continent.
This operation marks a significant victory in the fight against international drug trafficking.