Europol has announced the apprehension of an international drug smuggling network and the seizure of billions of dollars in cocaine.
During the operation, a team of investigators seized 17 tonnes of the stimulant drug and assets worth approximately $87 million, and 15 people were arrested.
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According to Europol, the ring, one of Brazil’s most active trafficking organizations, has flooded Europe with massive cocaine shipments.
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According to the organization, the entire gang was smashed, including Paraguayan suppliers, shipping companies, and money launderers who handled the proceeds.
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Detectives searched 37 locations, seized 173 vehicles, confiscated one aircraft, froze 147 people’s bank accounts, and blocked 66 businesses.
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In the “Operation Hinterland” investigation, Spanish authorities have seized the assets of alleged gang members.
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According to the European police agency, the two-year operation was coordinated from two Brazilian command centers and involved police from France and Spain.
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The investigation began in December 2020, when German Customs seized 316 kilos of cocaine in the port of Hamburg.
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Investigators discovered routes used to smuggle cocaine from Paraguay in trucks before exporting it to Europe after receiving information that a Brazilian company was behind the shipment.
