On 15 April 2026, Europol supported law enforcement authorities in Montenegro in conducting a large-scale operation targeting a significant cell of the Balkan Cartel. Europol also supported law enforcement authorities in Germany regarding the investigation targeting potential contact persons. This action day resulted in the arrest of twelve suspects (four in Germany), including a High Value Target (HVT) apprehended in Montenegro.
The investigation, which was also supported by authorities in Austria and Spain, focused on a criminal network involved in large-scale international drug (cocaine and cannabis) trafficking. The suspects, residing in Montenegro and Germany, are believed to have played various roles within the criminal organisation, from financiers to coordinators and logisticians.
Significant cocaine and cannabis seizures
Judicial authorities in Montenegro filed charges against a number of suspects for their involvement in the trafficking of 2.7 tonnes of cocaine and 1.5 tonnes of cannabis between October 2024 and April 2026. The drugs were seized in 12 different preceding operations across several EU and South American countries. The network is believed to have utilised maritime and air trafficking routes, employing shipping containers and other clandestine methods to transport the illicit substances.
The criminal network is also suspected of having smuggled cannabis to the EU from and via countries such as Albania, Thailand, and the United States.
Europol’s support to national investigators
Approximately 100 police officers were engaged in both countries to execute arrests and conduct searches. Europol facilitated constant coordination, information exchange, and provided continuous analytical support throughout the investigation. The intelligence developed revealed a well-concealed network operating across continents and countries. Europol also provided financial support, which was utilised for special equipment and other operational needs.
Participating countries and agencies:
- Austria: Federal Criminal Intelligence Service (Bundeskriminalamt)
- Germany: Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt), State Criminal Police Office Hessen (Hessisches Landeskriminalamt)
- Montenegro: Drug Enforcement Department of Sector on Fight Against Crime, Police Directorate (Odsjek za borbu protiv droga Sektora za borbu protiv kriminala, Uprava policije)
- Spain: Guardia Civil
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