Home affairs ministers from six EU countries discussed shipping container screening and other aspects of organized crime at a meeting in Antwerp, Belgium, on Monday. The talks focused on the international drug trade through the major ports of Western Europe.
Belgium has been one of the most important drug hubs in Europe for several years now. At the same time, crime related to the drug environment increased sharply. By acting together, the six states want to prevent criminals from moving their activities to another port if the search pressure increases.
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser spoke out in favor of closing the “gateways” to drug smuggling. France, Italy, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands were also involved.
In a raid on the southern Italian ‘Ndrangheta in May, some 150 suspected mafiosi were arrested in various countries, including Germany. More than a hundred suspects have been arrested in Italy alone. German SPD politician Sebastian Fiedler said after the raid that the ‘Ndrangheta was responsible for a “cocaine surplus” in Germany. (aeg/sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
