Linz police arrest couple for suspected large-scale drug trafficking

Police in Linz, Austria, have arrested a 37-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman in connection with an extensive drug trafficking investigation. Authorities allege the man operated a significant narcotics trade between 2020 and 2026, involving the purchase and sale of various controlled substances and ordering drugs via the darknet.

Investigators claim the 37-year-old suspect recruited the 22-year-old woman to assist in the trade. She is suspected of handling over 1.45 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, 200 grams of amphetamine, and approximately 100 grams of ketamine, some of which was sold within Linz.

Recent investigations suggest the couple used the darknet to order shipments from abroad to their Linz address between April and June 2026. Seized or suspected quantities include at least 4 kilograms of amphetamine, 1.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 290 grams of ketamine. The suspects allegedly used social media to market the drugs, sometimes using photos and videos. Earlier investigations from 2020 and 2021 suggest the man was also involved in the acquisition of 7.7 kilograms of cannabis and 600 grams of cocaine.