Drug trafficking increased by nearly 25% in the first five months of the year
Police recorded 6,666 offences relating to illicit drug trafficking in the period January–May, representing a 24.7% increase compared to the same period in 2025. A total of 498 kilograms of drugs were seized and ten criminal groups were dismantled.
Drug trafficking increased by nearly 25% in the first five months of the year
Between 1 January and 31 May, law enforcement identified 6,666 cases of illegal trade in narcotic substances, an increase of 24.7% compared to the same period in 2025, according to Ziarul Prahova, citing a statement from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Ministry representatives explain that the rise in figures reflects two aspects: on one hand, the way criminal gangs are changing their tactics to adapt to new conditions in the narcotics market, and on the other hand, the strengthening of institutions' ability to discover and prove such offences.
During the five-month period, specialised MAI structures carried out 456 operations directed against organised networks operating in this field. Law enforcement officers conducted 1,278 raids and dismantled ten such groups. The actions undertaken resulted in the seizure of 498 kilograms of dangerous and very dangerous substances, as well as the confiscation of 24,214 pills and over 117 kilograms of plants obtained from unauthorised cultivation.
The narcotics phenomenon continues to be regarded by officials as one of the most serious challenges to internal security, both at national and continental level. According to the most recent European Drug Report – 2025, compiled by the European Union Agency for Drugs, the quantities of cocaine seized are increasing, the production of artificial substances is expanding, and new psychoactive compounds with intense and unpredictable effects are appearing. The document also notes that criminal organisations are constantly revising their manufacturing, distribution and sales methods, increasingly turning to digital tools and the online space.
A distinct priority was to prevent drug use whilst driving vehicles. During the same period, 17,731 people at the wheel were subjected to tests for detection of psychoactive substances. A total of 282 cases of driving under the influence of these substances were discovered, along with 392 cases of trafficking or illicit consumption. Additionally, 333 driving licences were suspended for driving under the influence of drugs or other prohibited substances.
Source: Google News RO — Crime (ro)