Europol came out with an announcement today that a major international operation targeting an organized Balkan criminal network has been carried out, resulting in the arrest of 12 suspects, including the cartel’s leader who was detained in Montenegro.
The operation, conducted with the support of German security services, focused on a highly organized cell linked to international drug trafficking. According to Europol, four suspects were arrested in Germany, while the remaining arrests took place across several European countries.
Authorities from Austria and Spain were also involved in the investigation, helping uncover the complex network responsible for organizing the transport and distribution of large quantities of narcotics.
Investigators say the group is suspected of smuggling around 2.7 tons of cocaine and 1.5 tons of cannabis between October 2024 and April 2026. The drugs were seized in 12 separate operations across multiple countries in the European Union and South America.
The network allegedly used sophisticated smuggling methods, including container shipping and air routes, to conceal illegal shipments. Logistics trails also point to the use of naval routes and covert transfer channels.
The criminal group is additionally suspected of links to cannabis smuggling into the European Union via or from countries such as Albania, Thailand and the United States.
Europol emphasized that the suspects had clearly divided roles within the organization, ranging from financiers and coordinators to logistics specialists, indicating a high level of organization and international coordination.
The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are not being ruled out.
