July 19th 2024.
In a joint operation between the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police, and European Police, nine individuals have been arrested in Montenegro in a major drug bust. The Europol officers conducted searches at 15 different locations within the Balkan country and apprehended nine "High-Value Targets" who held key positions in the alleged drug operation.
The raids not only resulted in the arrests, but also led to the seizure of a significant amount of evidence. Among the items confiscated were 22 firearms, 722 pieces of ammunition, 15 vehicles, 2 vessels, luxury watches, cash, and documents. This is a major blow to the suspected drug trafficking network, as these individuals were closely linked to various criminal cells operating within the Balkan region and beyond.
According to a release by Iternpol, some of the suspects are believed to be part of one of the most notorious and violent Montenegrin clans, while others are suspected leaders of their own criminal groups. In fact, one of the suspects, who is considered the leader of this particular criminal group, is allegedly responsible for multiple murders that were carried out during gang wars.
Out of the nine individuals arrested, four have already been charged while in prison, and the remaining five are believed to be on the run. The investigation began after authorities intercepted 1.8 tonnes of cocaine shipments heading to Australia from Europe between 2020 and 2021. It was during this time that the suspects came on the radar of law enforcement, as they had previously been involved in other drug trafficking investigations.
Europol has stated that criminal networks from the Western Balkans have been increasingly targeting the Australian drug market, as the profits from drug trafficking are significantly higher there compared to the European market. The supply route for these drugs starts in countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, Southern Europe, and Africa before reaching Australia.
It is estimated that one kilo of cocaine can fetch up to €100,000 on the Australian black market, making it a highly lucrative business for these criminal networks. The investigation was a collaborative effort between Europol, the Australian Federal Police, NSW Police, the Montenegrin Special Police Division, and the United States Drugs Enforcement Administration. This successful operation serves as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation in combating organized crime.
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