The police dismantled “one of the largest” laboratories of cocaine during an operation that resulted in seven arrests and the seizure of approximately 1,500 kilos of drugs,reported Thursday.
Within the framework of this operation, investigators discovered “a highly organized criminal group, in charge of introducing large quantities of cocaine into the European continent,” the judicial police explained in a statement.
The examination, which began a year ago thanks to an exchange of details with Colombian, spanish and American authorities, culminated in the arrest of four Portuguese, two Colombians and one Moroccan, aged between 29 and 56 years.
During the investigations, the police also confiscated “three firearms, notable sums of money, and also several light and heavy vehicles,” the PJ added.
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In the last year, “five drug trafficking laboratories were dismantled in different regions of the country,” said Artur Vaz, director of the PJ’s anti-drug trafficking unit, at a press conference.
Last May, the PJ had seized nearly a ton of cocaine hidden in containers of bananas from Colombia that arrived in the country through the port of Setúbal, about 40 kilometers south of Lisbon, in Portugal.
The Portuguese police, who had identified several suspects on that occasion, issued arrest warrants and carried out several searches.
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Interview: Dismantling Major Cocaine Operations in Europe
Time.news Editor: Today, we’re joined by Dr. Maria Santos,an expert in drug trafficking and organized crime,to discuss the recent dismantling of a significant cocaine laboratory in Portugal.Dr. Santos, thank you for being hear.
Dr. Maria Santos: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss this pressing issue.
time.news Editor: To start, can you unpack the details of this operation? The police reported seizing approximately 1,500 kilos of cocaine and arresting seven individuals involved. What does this reveal about the scale of drug trafficking in Europe?
Dr. Maria Santos: This operation highlights a well-structured and organized criminal group that is capable of introducing significant quantities of cocaine into Europe. The scale of the seizure—1,500 kilos—is monumental and indicative of the ongoing struggle against drug trafficking networks. This event isn’t isolated; it reflects a more extensive problem in Europe regarding cocaine importation and distribution.
Time.news Editor: The police noted collaboration with colombian, Spanish, and American authorities. How critical is international cooperation in combatting drug trafficking?
Dr. Maria Santos: International cooperation is absolutely essential in dismantling large-scale trafficking operations. Drug trafficking is a transnational crime, and organized criminal groups often operate across borders. By sharing intelligence and resources, countries can track and intercept drug shipments, leading to significant busts like the one we saw in Portugal. This partnership between nations is a pivotal factor in achieving accomplished law enforcement outcomes.
Time.news Editor: In the past year, five drug trafficking laboratories have been dismantled in Portugal.What trends are you seeing in drug trafficking methods and locations?
Dr. Maria Santos: We’re witnessing a shift in trafficking methods—criminal organizations are becoming increasingly refined. Modern technology is often employed to disguise shipments and avoid detection. For instance, the recent cocaine shipment concealed in banana containers shows how traffickers are using legitimate businesses as a front. Additionally, the choice of locations reflects a strategic adaptation to law enforcement tactics, often altering routes and points of entry into Europe to evade capture.
Time.news Editor: During the inquiry, firearms, large sums of money, and vehicles where also seized. What does this suggest about the nature of these criminal organizations?
Dr. Maria Santos: The presence of firearms and considerable cash points to a deeply entrenched criminal ecosystem.It reveals not just the illicit drug trade but also a network that includes violence and intimidation. These groups often rely on firepower to protect their interests and maintain control over their territory. The significance of seizing vehicles also indicates their reliance on logistics and transport to move drugs efficiently.
Time.news Editor: For individuals looking to contribute to the fight against drug trafficking, what advice would you provide?
Dr. Maria Santos: Education and awareness are key. Communities should be informed about the drug issue,including the signs of trafficking in their neighborhoods. Supporting local law enforcement through reporting suspicious activities can make a significant difference. Additionally, advocating for comprehensive addiction and rehabilitation programs is crucial; the end goal should be to reduce the demand for drugs, which in turn diminishes the power of these trafficking organizations.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Santos, for providing such valuable insights into this pressing issue. It’s crucial for our readers to stay informed about the complexities of drug trafficking and the importance of both local and international efforts in combatting it.
Dr. Maria Santos: Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we continue shedding light on these issues.