Three suspects aged 32, 33, and 44 from Parkstad were already incarcerated at the time of their arrest. Additionally, a 34-year-old man was arrested without a fixed residence. He had just been released after serving 30 months in prison. Finally, a 42-year-old man from Heerlen was also arrested.
Investigation
The investigation was initiated in mid-2023 at the request of the Public Prosecution Service in Limburg and focused on the five men. The group produced and traded narcotics in an organized manner in the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and possibly other European countries.
Active for Years
The investigation revealed that the group had likely been setting up drug laboratories and cannabis farms in various countries since 2018. The police became aware of the group through the interception of messages via the encrypted communication services Encrochat and Sky-ECC.
Roles in the Collaboration
Within the organization, each member had their own role. The 32-year-old suspect was clearly the boss. The others performed coordinating tasks, were involved in purchasing goods intended for the production sites, or carried out operational tasks at those sites and managed payments.
Notably, the organization continued to function even when one or more members were incarcerated.
Possible More Arrests
This investigation does not stop with these arrests. The suspects will have to answer to the court. Further arrests are not excluded.