Latin American organised crime ‘may operate in 16 European countries’
Cocaine seizures in Europe are up more than fivefold in 10 years as a host of cartels take root. A four-month Guardian investigation reveals the true scale of a continent-wide shift A four-month investigation by the Guardian has revealed that the surge in cocaine trafficking to Europe is directly linked to the expanding presence of Latin American criminal networks in Europe, where they have…
In a comprehensive four-month investigation, the Guardian has uncovered the burgeoning influence of Latin American drug cartels in Europe. The surge in cocaine trafficking to the continent has surged more than fivefold over the last decade, according to seizures data. This investigation, conducted across eight European countries, reveals a deep-rooted connection between these cartels and local mafia organisations.
The research, which analyzed databases, police and intelligence reports, and interviewed judges, prosecutors, and experts from various European nations, establishes that cartels and factions from Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, Mexico, and the US are operating in at least 12 European countries. This statistic reflects a 471% increase in the quantity of cocaine seized between 2014 and 2024.
Furthermore, the number of local laboratories processing cocaine derivatives has significantly risen, suggesting a comprehensive infiltration of these criminal organizations into Europe's drug trade landscape.
Written by urgent.news from The Guardian's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
