Blow to international drug trafficking network: 20 arrests

A joint operation across the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Ukraine delivered a major blow to an international drug trafficking network, with 20 people arrested during the action week. Authorities, working with Eurojust and Europol, investigated the group’s alleged cocaine and methamphetamine smuggling activities and coordinated evidence-gathering for arrests across multiple countries.

Officials said the suspects operated mainly from the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Ukraine, carrying drugs between those states in passenger vehicles and buses. They allegedly used constantly changing methods to conceal the drugs, including hiding them on people and in everyday items such as children’s toys and household goods. Investigators also said the network was organised into units handling procurement, transport, distribution and financial flows.

According to Eurojust, investigations that began in July 2025 led to a joint action day on 18 June 2026, when searches and arrests took place in three countries. In the Czech Republic, four individuals were detained (three in pre-trial detention) and searches led to the seizure of about 1.8 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with a rifle, counterfeit documents, cash and a luxury vehicle.

In Slovakia, authorities searched 24 locations and seized drugs, cars, firearms, electronic devices, signal jammers and tools used to open cars. Eight suspects were arrested, including the alleged ringleader, who was said to face accusations including unauthorised production and trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

In Ukraine, officials detained eight members of the group and carried out more than 80 searches. Investigators reported seizures including drones, firearms and ammunition, equipment linked to operating a bot farm, gold and silver jewellery, cash and electronic devices.