German authorities, led by Cologne police, mounted coordinated raids in Germany, Spain and Austria that uncovered more than 4 tonnes of cannabis and large amounts of cocaine, crack and amphetamine precursor. Nine arrest warrants were executed and 31 people are under investigation. Officials estimate the group's transactions exceed €11 million. Europol and foreign investigators supported the probe.
Europe-Wide Drug Ring Busted in Germany-Led Raids — 4+ Tonnes of Cannabis Seized
FILE PHOTO - Dried cannabis flowers lie on a rock. (is associated with: «Major raids target Europe-wide drug ring operating from Germany») Karl-Josef Hildenbrand/dpa
Investigators have carried out coordinated raids across Germany, Spain and Austria to dismantle a suspected Europe-wide drug trafficking network based in North Rhine-Westphalia, the Cologne public prosecutor's office said. Authorities seized more than four metric tonnes of cannabis and substantial quantities of other narcotics in the operation.
Raids, Arrests and Investigations
Acting on behalf of the Cologne prosecutor's office, police searched 31 private residences, business premises and concealment sites. Nine arrest warrants were executed for suspects aged between 24 and 31, and a total of 31 individuals are currently under investigation.
Seized Drugs and Estimated Value
Prosecutors reported the following seizures linked to the probe:
More than 4 tonnes of cannabis
Over 27 kilograms of cocaine
About 1.5 kilograms of crack cocaine
Approximately 800 litres of amphetamine oil — which investigators say is sufficient to produce more than 3 tonnes of amphetamine
Based on the evidence gathered so far, the prosecutor's office estimates the value of the group's transactions at more than €11 million (roughly $12.6 million).
Who Led the Probe
The investigation was led by Cologne police, with support from Europol and investigative partners in Spain and Austria. Authorities say leading members of the organisation are alleged to have run a cross-border distribution operation over several years.
Next steps: Prosecutors will continue their inquiries, pursuing charges against those under investigation and seeking to trace the group's supply chains and financial flows.
"This quantity of amphetamine oil is sufficient to produce more than 3 tons of amphetamine," the Cologne prosecutor's office said.
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