EncroChat investigation: over 750 arrests and drugs valued in millions in Germany
German security authorities arrested more than 750 people following analysis of encrypted EncroChat data. Seized items included 3.2 tonnes of cannabis and 310 weapons.
Major raid following decryption of EncroChat mobile phones
German security authorities arrested more than 750 people and seized substantial quantities of drugs, according to their own statements – made possible by access to extensive chat data from encrypted mobile phones. As AP News reports, the Frankfurt public prosecutor's office and the German Federal Criminal Police announced the results of the operation on Tuesday in a joint statement.
The investigation, which began in April 2020, focused on users of EncroChat provider who were involved in illegal drug trafficking. Authorities from the Netherlands and France supported the inquiry.
"The EncroChat data were obtained as part of a French investigation," said Frankfurt prosecutor Julia Bussweiler to news agency AP. "The French authorities, together with the Dutch authorities, established what is known as a joint investigation team, and within this team they succeeded in decrypting the encrypted data and thereby reading the communication between users of EncroChat mobile phones."
During searches, investigators seized 3.2 tonnes of cannabis, approximately 320 kilogrammes of synthetic drugs, more than 125,500 ecstasy pills, just under 400 kilogrammes of cocaine, and 10 kilogrammes of heroin. In addition, 310 weapons, more than 12,200 rounds of ammunition, and assets valued at 168 million euros were seized.
Bussweiler emphasised that the investigation was far from complete. "There are many people who are in pre-trial detention," she said. "The data are currently being examined to determine whether they are sufficient for prosecution."
Source: AP News