The criminal organization known as the ‘Balkan clan’ was responsible for half of the cocaine that reached Europe. An operation by the Civil Guard in collaboration with other countries through Europol has dismantled this drug trafficking network.
The operation, called Adriatic, lasted more than four years and had a significant impact. The Civil Guard dismantled a part of this organization in a first phase. Composed mainly of Spanish citizens, this branch had direct control over workers in the Barcelona port area.
In this way, they ensured the entry of large quantities of cocaine from South America, which they then delivered to different ownership groups, including the powerful ‘Balkan clan‘. The operation was a success thanks to the police and judicial cooperation between several countriesincluding Brazil, Serbia, Italia, Croatia, Dubai, Germany, Belgium y Türkiye.
Total, 40 people were arrested, including 3 high value targets in Spain. Furthermore, they seized 8 tons ofcocaineweapons of war, 12.5 million euros in cash3 million dollars and assets worth 50 million euros.
The clan trafficked cocaine that they brought from Brazil and stored it in Sierra Leone, and then distribute it from the Canary Islands to all of Europe.
What the Balkan clan was like and how it worked
He Balkan clan It had a complex hierarchical structure. It was an organized and highly specialized network that operated at multiple levels and regions.
The clan was led by a small group of leaders, often known as “capos”. These individuals had complete control over operations and decision making.
The base of the clan was made up of soldiers and hitmen. They were responsible for carrying out orders, protecting the interests of the clan, and carrying out illegal activities such as drug trafficking and extortion.
The clan operated in different regions of Europa and had specific subgroups for each area. Each subgroup was led by a regional chief who coordinated local activities.
The clan had a distribution network that spanned several countries. They used intermediaries, transporters and local contacts to move cocaine from points of entry to destination markets.
To hide their illicit profits, the clan used complex money laundering operations. They invested in real estate, legitimate businesses, and other assets to launder money obtained from drug trafficking.
The clan maintained alliances with other criminal groups and sometimes faced rivals. The Infighting and territorial disputes They were common.
