Major drug operation in Europe

A major Europe-wide operation has dealt a significant blow to a synthetic drug production and distribution network. As part of the operation, 24 industrial-scale laboratories were rendered inoperable, and authorities seized approximately one thousand tons of chemical substances. The closure of the laboratories and the capture of one of the network's two key figures made this one of the most notable developments of the operation.

According to authorities, the laboratories were illegally producing synthetic drugs such as MDMA, amphetamine, and methamphetamine. Law enforcement agencies from Belgium, Czechia, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain participated in the operation, and through comprehensive coordination, simultaneous raids were carried out in several countries.

Andy Kraag, head of the European Serious Organised Crime Centre, emphasized the scale of the operation, stating, "This is the largest operation we have ever conducted against synthetic drug production and distribution." Kraag also noted that a heavy blow had been dealt to the criminal networks' illegal chemical supply chain.

It was reported that more than 85 people, including two prominent Polish figures, were taken into custody as part of the operation. With the capture of these ringleaders, it is estimated that the network's management structure has also been dismantled.

The investigation reportedly dates back to 2024. Following the discovery by Polish police of a network importing large quantities of "legal chemicals" from China and India, investigations revealed that these substances were being shipped to laboratories in various countries. It was determined that the chemicals were being distributed within the European Union through mislabeling and repackaging methods.

120 THOUSAND LITERS OF TOXIC CHEMICAL WASTE SEIZED

Authorities also drew attention to the environmental damage caused by synthetic drug production during the operation. They announced that more than 120 thousand liters of toxic chemical waste were seized, noting that otherwise, this waste would often be dumped directly into nature or water sources. On this matter, Kraag remarked, "Today it is profit for the criminals. Tomorrow, it is pollution."

Regarding the operation, Kraag stated, "These criminal groups no longer have the supply," and indicated that a significant part of the network had been eliminated. However, it was emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing and that other potential distribution networks in Europe are being closely monitored. "This is one of the biggest distributors, but not the only one. We are continuing our search," he said, underscoring that the operation will continue.

News Source: 12punto