Europol supported law enforcement authorities from Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Germany, and Serbia in carrying out a large-scale operation targeting a prominent cell of the so-called ‘Balkan Cartel’. During the action day conducted on 10 December 2025 in Germany, three suspects were arrested and over EUR 5 million in criminal assets were seized.
The coordinated operation targeted several High Value Targets (HVTs) residing in Germany, who are believed to be key figures within the Balkan Cartel. The investigation revealed that this criminal cell was responsible for multi-tonne cocaine shipments originating from Colombia and utilising various methods to smuggle drugs into Europe. The network also engaged in money laundering through companies and real estate across multiple countries within the EU and beyond.
Today’s action, which saw 500 police officers taking part in the arrests and searching 45 premises, marks the culmination of a complex investigation into large-scale drug trafficking, money laundering, and weapons trafficking. During the searches, approximately EUR 50 000 in cash, two gold coins, numerous luxury items such as jewellery, watches, handbags, three high-value vehicles, as well as properties both in Germany and abroad, were seized. Furthermore, various documents and electronics as well as a loaded firearm with ammunition were found and seized. The evidence is currently being evaluated.
Division of criminal tasks
The three suspects arrested during the action day played various roles within the criminal network, including financiers, coordinators, and logistics experts. The main suspect, of Western Balkans origin and residing in Germany, is known for using a distinctive cocaine logo as a trademark.
In previous operations, Europol and its partner countries have already dealt significant blows to the Balkan Cartel. This includes numerous arrests made in the past years (e.g. 13 arrests in May 2023 and 21 arrests in October 2023 during action days). Europol played a crucial role in facilitating the constant coordination, exchange of information, and providing continuous analytical support to the investigation. The intelligence developed during the operation revealed a sophisticated and well-organised network operating across continents and countries.
