Massive Drug Ring Busted

In a significant crackdown on synthetic drug trafficking, Europol has successfully coordinated a massive operation across Ukraine, Poland, and Moldova, leading to the arrest of 103 individuals and the dismantling of 36 labs. The operation, carried out between February 12 and 17, 2026, targeted a network involved in the production and distribution of synthetic cathinones, notably alpha-PVP.

The coordinated raids saw approximately 510 locations checked by the Ukrainian National Police and the Polish Police Central Bureau of Investigation. This extensive operation led to the dismantling of 36 production sites and 74 storage facilities. Alongside the arrests, law enforcement seized vast quantities of drugs and precursors, including over 20,000 liters of precursors and hundreds of kilograms of various synthetic drugs.

This operation highlights the sophisticated strategies employed by criminal networks, utilizing legal business structures in several countries to mask their activities. The network, allegedly led by a Ukrainian organizer with deep ties in Polish criminal circles, was adept at navigating legal loopholes to facilitate their illegal operations across borders, complicating efforts by authorities to tackle their activities.

Europol’s involvement included providing operational and analytical support to enhance real-time data exchange and coordination among the participating countries. This bust not only disrupts a significant drug trafficking route but also strengthens the ongoing collaboration between European law enforcement agencies against organized crime.