Two young men released under conditions accused of drug trafficking with online orders and QR codes

Thessaloniki's judicial system has seen two young men, aged 21 and 19, released under restrictive terms following accusations of operating a sophisticated drug trafficking ring. The pair allegedly utilized social media applications and QR codes to facilitate online orders, a method that has become increasingly prevalent in modern criminal enterprises. Their release, however, comes with strict conditions: they are forbidden from leaving the country and must regularly report to their local police station.

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They denied the charge of drug trafficking attributed to them.

During their interrogations, both defendants vehemently denied the charges leveled against them. They asserted that they had no involvement in distributing narcotics via online platforms or social media. Furthermore, they claimed no knowledge of or participation in the placement of the distinctive QR code stickers that were discovered by law enforcement authorities. This denial forms the crux of their defense as the case proceeds.

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They supported that they did not use social media applications or other online platforms for drug trafficking, nor did they use or place the stickers with the QR codes that were detected by the police authorities.

The investigation, spearheaded by the Hellenic Police (EL.AS.), uncovered a network that allegedly connected buyers with dealers through encrypted online communication channels. The system reportedly allowed for anonymous payments, including the use of cryptocurrencies, adding another layer of complexity to the alleged operation. The QR codes found scattered across Thessaloniki were allegedly direct links to these communication channels, designed to streamline drug procurement for interested parties.

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The interested buyers communicated electronically with the dealers, and there was the possibility of payment even with anonymous means, such as cryptocurrencies.

This case highlights the evolving tactics employed by drug traffickers, leveraging technology to reach a wider audience and maintain a degree of anonymity. The police operation that led to the arrests involved the discovery of a significant quantity of cannabis, digital scales, numerous QR code stickers, and cash in the possession of the 21-year-old suspect. While the two young men have been released, the investigation into the broader network and the full extent of their alleged involvement continues.

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In the possession of the 21-year-old accused, according to EL.AS., were two hand luggage bags containing seven packages with a total of 107 grams of raw cannabis, 227 empty packages, two precision electronic scales, 48 advertising stickers with QR code, the amount of 250 euros and three full-face balaclavas.