Drug smuggling methods change to evade detection, EU report finds

Organized crime groups are evolving their drug smuggling tactics to bypass intensified policing efforts in Europe, according to the latest EU drugs report. The report details a shift towards utilizing smaller ports, at-sea transfers with "go-fast" boats, semi-submersibles, drones, and advanced concealment methods for trafficking cannabis, cocaine, heroin, and other drugs.

These changes reflect a strategic adaptation by criminal gangs to circumvent heightened security at major European ports. This diversification makes drug trafficking more difficult to detect and places increased demands on law enforcement and customs authorities. The report also notes the persistent exploitation and recruitment of vulnerable young people by organized crime groups for drug trafficking and associated violence, which remains a significant concern.

Furthermore, the European Drugs Agency (EUDA) is monitoring over 1,000 new psychoactive substances, with a new one detected weekly. The report flags powerful synthetic opioids and concerns that adolescents are using vapes and e-cigarettes for harmful substances beyond nicotine. The rapid evolution and complexity of drug markets pose increasing health risks, exacerbated by the wide availability of diverse substances, rising polysubstance use, and the increasing prevalence of new cannabis products, opioids, and stimulants.