The Public Prosecution Service suspects a 69-year-old man from Amsterdam of involvement in the import of nearly 4500 kilos of cocaine through the port of Amsterdam. The drugs were intercepted in June this year. This is the largest cocaine seizure ever in the Amsterdam port.
The cocaine was found in a container with wood, originating from a company in Ghana and destined for a German company. Investigation has shown that this company likely served as a front. According to the Public Prosecution Service, this company was actually used as a cover for international drug transports.
The German company is registered to a 72-year-old man from Chaam. He reportedly did not conduct business activities but only received compensation to put the company in his name. The investigation shows that this man was recruited as a frontman by the 69-year-old suspect. Analysis of the 72-year-olds phone ultimately led to the identification of the 69-year-old man from Amsterdam.
When this man was arrested on October 5, 2025, in Amsterdam, four phones were seized. The HARC Noordzeekanaalgebied – a joint investigation team of police, customs, and FIOD led by the Public Prosecution Service – is investigating the contents of these devices and the associated money flows to further clarify the suspects role. On October 20, the Amsterdam court extended his pre-trial detention by ninety days.
Several other persons have come into view in the ongoing investigation. Three men, including the 72-year-old from Chaam, were released after questioning and remain suspects in the investigation. More arrests are expected in the near future.
