International Drug Trafficking Network Busted: 61 Arrested, €60 Million Seized

Italy police have arrested 61 people and seized €60 million across four countries following an investigation into international drug trafficking and money laundering. The operation revealed ties between Albania and Latin America, and exposed the use of illicit Chinese money brokers. The criminal network used shadow banking systems and false invoices to launder money.

Italian authorities have dismantled an international drug trafficking network, arresting 61 individuals and seizing €60 million ($67.1 million) on Wednesday. The extensive operation spanned Italy, Albania, Switzerland, and Poland, coordinated by local law enforcement and Europol.

The Brescia finance police conducted the raids with a 400-strong force, uncovering a complex criminal scheme orchestrated from Albania. The gang imported cocaine from South America to Europe, distributing it across Italy through commercial shipping routes and trucks.

The illicit proceeds were funneled through a Chinese-run shadow banking system involving false invoices and complicit Italian entrepreneurs. This bust is the latest in a series of operations exposing such sophisticated laundering networks. Tools including encrypted chat decryption and wiretaps facilitated the investigation, which also led to the seizure of 2.5 million euros and 360 kg of drugs.

(With inputs from agencies.)