On August 20, 2024, Customs intercepted a package containing nearly two kilograms of MDMA during a control. The drugs were hidden in jars of protein powder and were on their way to Colombia. The discovery marked the start of the HARP: the Hit and Run Post team. The HARP is a collaboration between the police, Customs, and the Public Prosecution Service aimed at tracking down and prosecuting criminals who send drugs by mail abroad.

Under the guidance of a prosecutor in The Hague, a criminal investigation was initiated. Investigators were able to trace the delivery point through the package. Surveillance footage showed the package was sent by the suspect on August 16, 2024, in Utrecht.

Two Packages

But it didnt stop there. On September 4, 2024, Customs intercepted another package containing the same jars of protein powder, in which drugs were once again hidden. This time it was again two kilograms of MDMA, and the package had the same destination. When investigators reviewed the surveillance footage from the drop-off point in Almere, it turned out to be the same suspect. On November 26, he was arrested in Rijswijk, and his data carriers were seized.

Methodical

According to the prosecutor, the suspect worked methodically. Chat messages on his phone revealed that he was in regular contact with a person hiding behind the name Mr. Worldwide. The two discussed the best drop-off locations, the destinations, and also ways to hide the drugs effectively. For example, a sandwich maker or toys could be good hiding spots.

“The suspect has been an essential link in the international drug chain and has contributed to maintaining the chain of criminal undermining activities,” said the prosecutor.

Demand

The Public Prosecution Service demanded a prison sentence of forty months. The court will deliver its verdict in two weeks.