Drug trafficking network dismantled: 1.7 tonnes seized, seven arrested
DIICOT detained seven suspects who were transporting tonnes of drugs in articulated lorries from Spain across Europe for Albanian traffickers. The total value exceeds 25 million euros.
Seven arrested after more than 1.7 tonnes of drugs discovered in articulated lorries crossing Europe
Google News RO — Crime (ro) reports that DIICOT prosecutors detained seven people on Monday evening in a case of international drug trafficking, with the group operating since 2023 for the benefit of Albanian drug traffickers.
The suspects were concealing cocaine and cannabis in specially adapted compartments within articulated lorries departing from Spain towards several European countries. Orders were transmitted through encrypted messaging applications, and shipments were subsequently organised to minimise the risk of detection.
In four transport operations stopped by authorities in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, more than 1.7 tonnes of narcotics were discovered, valued at over 25 million euros.
Lawyer Alexandru Peicea stated that "this is quite a major case, the quantity of drugs is significant", specifying that the investigation concerns the offences of forming an organised criminal group, trafficking in high-risk drugs and trafficking in very high-risk drugs.
When articulated lorry drivers were caught in the act, group leaders ensured they obtained access to criminal case files to determine whether the investigation was moving towards them.
On Monday, 16 searches were carried out in several counties across Romania. The group used five companies as a front to conceal its activity.
The network's leader was placed by EUROPOL on the "High Value Target" list — a category reserved for offenders considered priority targets at international level.
During hearings held in Bucharest, witnesses were also present. Lawyer Cornel Druță clarified that "my client has the status of a witness" and that "he purchased a vehicle from a suspected defendant, it remains to be seen to what extent he is or is not guilty". Another lawyer present confirmed that his own client had sold a car to one of the suspects and had used it for personal purposes.
Source: Google News RO — Crime (ro)