NEWS
A significant Europe drug cartel has collapsed following final arrests in Spain. The criminal network, with leaders intercepted in Dubai and Türkiye, organized multi-tonne cocaine trafficking from South America to the EU. A long-term investigation led by the Spanish Civil Guard, supported by Europol, culminated in this major operation, the final action in a series of efforts spanning three years. This internationally coordinated operation involved Belgium, Brazil, Croatia, Germany, Italy, Serbia, and Türkiye, under Europol’s Operational Taskforce.
Source: Europol
SITUATION ANALYSIS
The operation targeted a criminal network orchestrating multi-tonne cocaine trafficking from Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador to the EU. The cartel used maritime shipments through West Africa and the Canary Islands, distributing the cocaine across Europe via handling centers in Belgium, Croatia, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Leaders in Türkiye and Dubai controlled the network. In August 2023, the Spanish Civil Guard intercepted a vessel with 700 kilograms of cocaine near the Canary Islands, revealing further connections to earlier interceptions. This intelligence led to coordinated international actions, resulting in arrests and significant seizures.
CHALLENGES
- Preemptive Measures: Effective dismantling of large-scale drug networks requires proactive intelligence gathering and surveillance to identify and neutralize threats early.
- International Coordination: Successful operations depend on seamless cooperation among global law enforcement agencies, highlighting the complexity of targeting widespread criminal networks.
- Technological Adaptation: Criminals’ use of encrypted communications necessitates advanced technological tools for monitoring and deciphering their activities.
WHY iCOGNATIVE?
iCognative™ employs advanced brainwave analysis to detect specific patterns when suspects are exposed to relevant stimuli, such as details about smuggling operations. Consequently, this technology enhances investigative capabilities by identifying suspects with direct knowledge and confirming the accuracy of their information.
- Targeted Interrogation: iCognative identifies suspects with direct knowledge of smuggling routes, accomplices, and operations through unique brainwave responses.
- Identification of Key Figures: It pinpoints top-level leaders and coordinators within the network, facilitating the dismantlement of the hierarchy.
- Verification of Information: The technology confirms suspects’ knowledge, ensuring the reliability of gathered intelligence and enhancing investigative accuracy.
By integrating iCognative™ into this investigation, authorities can ensure a more comprehensive dismantling of the cartel. Additionally, it helps uncover the full extent of its operations and prevents future criminal activities.
Source: Brainwave Science