Several people were arrested in an operation targeting a drug network with ties to the Mexican-based Sinaloa cartel, according to the European Union's law enforcement agency, Europol, on Wednesday.
One Belgian was among the 16 people arrested in the operation. The other suspects were French (13), Serbian (1) and Mexican/American (1). 15 arrests took place in France, while one person was apprehended in Belgium.
The case began in June 2024, when French authorities seized 216 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and arrested two French nationals.
The subsequent investigation revealed a connection with a criminal network which produced and trafficked synthetic drugs. The group had strong ties to the Sinaloa cartel and criminal gangs active in Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and New Zealand.
The two suspected main organisers of the network were identified as Algerian and French. They relied on Mexican cartels for logistical support and expertise. In turn, the cartels used local intermediaries to establish their operations and expand their influence.
The chemicals used in the production of the drugs were sourced from China, according to the investigators. Cryptocurrency is thought to have been used to facilitate the illegal financial transactions involved in the operation.
Back in 2022, Europol warned of a growing collaboration between Mexican cartels and EU-based criminal networks. This has coincided with a noted growth of local production of methamphetamine and cocaine in Europe.
The recent operation, which took place on 19 May, further led to authorities seizing three vehicles, phones, electronics, and luxury goods valued at €100,000, almost €80,000 in bank accounts, and around €10,000 in cash. Additionally, some €30,000 in cryptocurrency was frozen.
The investigation was carried out by the French National Gendarmerie and involved Belgian law enforcement and support from Europol. The investigation is still ongoing.
