Albanian criminal network dismantled in Greek cocaine smuggling operation

Greek police, in collaboration with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), conducted an operation titled ‘Lulet e së keqes’ (Flowers of Evil), resulting in the arrest of seven individuals, mostly Albanians. The operation targeted a criminal network responsible for trafficking 84 kg of cocaine from Colombia. Investigators discovered that the group used a front company established in 2023, which claimed to import roses but lacked a physical headquarters or staff. To evade customs risk analysis, the group routed shipments from Colombia through Canada to Greece rather than shipping directly.

Among those arrested is an individual wanted by Interpol Tirana for murder in Albania, along with his son. One suspect is reportedly a known figure in Albanian business circles. The investigation revealed that the group had previously made seven shipments of roses from Colombia to Greece, which may have served as tests for their smuggling methods.

Separately, the Director General of the Albanian State Police, Skënder Hita, has outlined new strategic priorities for police structures in Korçë, Tirana, and Dibër. His directives focus on combating organized crime, illegal weapons, and drug trafficking. Additionally, Hita emphasized increasing security near schools for the upcoming academic year and strengthening border controls to prevent trafficking. He also called for improved road safety through technology and enhanced public trust through ethical service and community cooperation.