Raid Against Drug Dealers: Arrests in International Cocaine Trade Operation

Security authorities have arrested three suspected drug traffickers in northern Germany and Switzerland as part of a large-scale operation targeting international cocaine smuggling. These individuals, along with seven others, are accused of establishing a network of import companies to bring tons of cocaine from South America into Europe through North Sea ports.

The arrests were made during raids in Hamburg, Lower Saxony, and Schleswig-Holstein, based on arrest warrants issued by the Hamburg District Court. The seven other suspects reportedly reside primarily in northern Germany and Switzerland. The operation involved a coordinated effort between federal and state police forces, customs, and Swiss law enforcement agencies.

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They are accused of having built up a network of import companies to import cocaine in the ton range from South America via European North Sea ports.

In total, 16 residential and commercial properties were searched. Authorities seized assets amounting to a six-figure sum and collected extensive evidence, including mobile phones, computers, and shipping documents. The suspects allegedly exploited their positions in the international fruit trade to facilitate drug smuggling, using both legitimate company structures and shell companies for the transport of cocaine hidden in shipping containers.

The investigation highlights the sophisticated methods used by international drug cartels to move large quantities of narcotics across borders, utilizing global trade routes and complex corporate structures to conceal their illicit activities.

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In a coordinated action with the Federal Criminal Police Office and with the support of the Federal Police, the police of Hamburg, Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein and the Customs authorities, as well as in close cooperation with the Swiss law enforcement authorities, a total of 16 residential and commercial buildings were searched.