politics
March 24, 2026
Europol's large operation in five countries: criminal group involved in cigarette smuggling busted
In a coordinated operation carried out in five countries with Europol's support, a large organized criminal group suspected of cigarette smuggling was busted today, the European police agency announced.
TL;DR
- A large organized crime group suspected of cigarette smuggling was busted in a five-country operation supported by Europol.
- The investigation began after 12 million counterfeit cigarettes were seized in Genoa.
- The criminal network used sophisticated methods, including maritime routes and false customs declarations, to smuggle cigarettes.
- The group had connections to other high-ranking criminals involved in drug trafficking.
- Five suspects were arrested in Italy, Poland, and the UK.
- Assets worth approximately 2.5 million euros were seized.
- Estimated losses from customs, excise, and VAT exceed 10 million euros.
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