Camorra-linked counterfeit euro network dismantled in international raid

An international police operation has dismantled a criminal network linked to the Italian Camorra that specialized in manufacturing and distributing high-quality counterfeit euro banknotes. The operation, coordinated by the Baden-Württemberg Criminal Police Office and the Stuttgart Prosecutor's Office with support from Europol, involved simultaneous actions in Germany, Italy, and Spain.

Authorities conducted 16 searches across residences and businesses in Stuttgart, Naples, and Gran Canaria. The investigation resulted in six arrests, including five Italian nationals and one Turkish national, five of whom have been placed in pretrial detention. Investigators estimate that several hundred thousand counterfeit banknotes were circulated through criminal organizations in Germany and Spain.

During the searches, police seized firearms, ammunition, drugs, counterfeit money, and mobile phones. The investigation traces back to November 2021, following the arrest of an Italian citizen in Germany who was wanted by Italian authorities for ties to the Camorra.