The Hellenic Police dismantled an international cocaine trafficking organisation that was trafficking cocaine via containers from Latin America. On Monday, a large-scale police operation was carried out, during which a total of seven members of the organisation were arrested, including the leader.
According to reports, the police used information from the DEA Office of the US Embassy in Athens. The activity of the drug trafficking organisation’s members was verified by an investigation, with the assistance of the Narcotics Department of the Piraeus Customs Office.
The members of the organisation were trafficking significant quantities of cocaine by sea from Latin America to European countries, including Greece.
The drugs were transported via containers, which were hidden in reefer containers, while their importation into Greek territory was ensured through the access of members of the organisation to the Port of Piraeus and the unloading procedures.
During police the operation to dismantle the organisation, 34.26 kilograms of cocaine and 109,255 euros were confiscated.
The profits from their illegal activities appear to exceed 600,000 euros, according to the police.
A case was filed against them for – in some cases – criminal organisation, attempted murder, damage to foreign property, bodily harm, as well as violations of legislation on weapons and drugs.
The arrested persons, two of whom have previously been charged with similar offences, were brought before the relevant prosecuting authority. Investigations are continuing to reveal the scope of the criminal organisation's activities.