Barbershop operator in Wels suspected of drug trafficking – evidence lacking
Two Syrian-origin brothers were arrested following a COBRA operation in Wels. Despite serious allegations, no drugs or weapons were found during searches.
COBRA raid on Wels barbershop: brothers in custody, evidence lacking
As krone.at reports, the police special unit COBRA raided a barbershop in Wels last June and arrested the two operators – two Syrian-origin brothers aged 23 and 25. The operation was triggered by statements from a drug user who had made serious accusations against the pair.
Christoph Weber, spokesman for the Wels public prosecutor's office, explained the serious suspicion of wrongdoing: "The two defendants are substantially incriminated by witness statements. They are alleged to have sold cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy in kilogramme quantities and to have also possessed two pistols and an AK-47 together with ammunition."
Searches yielded little result
However, during the subsequent search of the business premises and several apartments, investigators found neither drugs nor firearms – only a knuckleduster came to light. Michael Lanzinger, the lawyer representing one of the two suspects, emphasised: "All of this is based on the suspicions of a witness. Concrete evidence against my client does not yet exist."
The defendants categorically deny the allegations.
Investigation continues
The Wels public prosecutor's office nevertheless does not regard the case as closed. According to Weber, numerous witnesses are currently being questioned and buyers and suppliers are being traced. In addition, accounts, mobile telephones and data carriers must be evaluated. When the investigation will be completed and whether charges will be brought remains unclear.
Lanzinger acknowledged that the evidentiary situation could still change, but expressed scepticism: "The file is certainly very comprehensive, but conclusive evidence is not in sight."
Both suspects have prior convictions
The two brothers are not without criminal records. The 25-year-old was convicted twice for aggravated threats and once for assault. His younger brother has prior convictions for perjury and for serious coercion and assault. Both are currently in custody in Wels. The presumption of innocence applies.
Source: Google News AT — Crime (de)