The Special Structure Against Organized Crime and Corruption (SPAK) announced on Saturday the dismantling of an international drug trafficking network based in Qerekë village, near Fushë-Krujë, only a few kilometers from the capital of Tirana. Authorities arrested 10 people, including 3 foreign nationals, and seized 6.1 kg of processed cocaine as well as other evidence.

Why is this important: The operation, conducted in cooperation with Spanish authorities, marks a significant blow to international crime networks. In recent months, SPAK has been engaged in a number of similar operations alongside international partners. This is not the first time that such a laboratory is found in Albania. The complexity of the methods used, as well as the presence of foreign specialists, reveal the sophistication, reach and deep pockets of Albanian organized crime groups that have become major players in cocaine trafficking. 

Context: The network was uncovered through an investigation launched by SPAK in 2023. Among the arrested are 7 Albanians and 3 foreign nationals—2 from Venezuela and 1 from Colombia. According to SPAK, this sophisticated criminal enterprise was based in Qerekë, where a cocaine processing lab was discovered. The drugs arrived from Latin America, contaminated to disguise them, and were refined in Albania before distribution to the European market.

Authorities seized 6.1 kg of processed cocaine and 48 tons of raw organic material – cow hides – suspected of containing hidden cocaine. In addition to the Qerekë lab, the network had facilities in Tirana and Durrës supporting the operation.

What was said: SPAK’s Chief, Altin Dumani, emphasized the operation’s importance: “This investigation is clear evidence of SPAK’s commitment to pursuing and dismantling criminal networks that threaten our country’s security and justice. The success of this criminal proceeding demonstrates that international cooperation and internal expertise are the key to achieving concrete results.”