Cocaine seizures in Europe surge 471% as Latin American cartels entrench
Cocaine seizures in Europe surged 471% in ten years. Latin American cartels expanded into at least 12 countries.
A four-month Guardian investigation reveals something important. Cocaine trafficking to Europe is driven by Latin American criminal networks.
These networks form ties with European mafia organizations. Between 2014 and 2024, cocaine seizures in Europe rose 471%.
Groups from Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, Mexico and the US now operate in at least 12 countries. These include Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium and France.
A Brazilian intelligence report that was not published suggests one network, the PCC, operates in 16 European countries. Europe has become a key market for cocaine.
Profits here are higher than in the US. Europe now makes up about a quarter of all global cocaine use.
- 471% rise from 2014 to 2024
- Seizure increase
- At least 12 European countries
- Countries with cartel presence
Why it mattersOrganized crime networks are building lasting criminal operations in wealthy markets. This expansion forces European authorities to change how they handle drug trafficking enforcement.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, though Australian police and border authorities monitor international drug trafficking patterns and organised crime networks for intelligence sharing with global partners.
Corroborated bymezha.net
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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