Greek authorities have successfully dismantled an Albanian drug trafficking network during a joint police operation involving special units, reportedly including Greece’s equivalent of the FBI, according to local media. The operation resulted in the arrest of six individuals and the seizure of significant quantities of drugs, weapons, and assets connected to criminal activities. Reports indicate that the organization’s illegal operations could have generated profits exceeding €8 million.
The arrested individuals include: Fatjon Prendi (39), the leader of the group; Elson Ndreca (36), his deputy; Brisejda Cami (35); Pashke Gega (73); Zoje Ndoj (35); and Arben Mashi (50). Media reports highlight that Prendi was already known to local authorities following a violent incident in 2012 involving a gunfire exchange with police and is also associated with armed vehicle robbery.
Investigations revealed a large cannabis plantation located in a forested area near the village of Peleta in Arkadi. Law enforcement authorities confiscated 1,640 cannabis plants, ranging in height from 150 to 280 centimeters, uprooted directly from the plantation. Additionally, 107 plastic bags containing unprocessed cannabis were seized, totaling approximately 1,161 kilograms, equivalent to over one ton of illegal drugs.
Further searches of residences and premises used by the group yielded additional evidence, including electronic scales, 17 mobile phones, three private vehicles, and various cultivation tools such as cutting machines, gardening equipment, and irrigation materials. Authorities also discovered smaller quantities of other drugs, including 4.3 grams of cocaine, 3.5 grams of ketamine, 10 grams of methamphetamine/MDMA, and ecstasy tablets. Some locations also contained firearms, ammunition, and a stun gun.
Detailed reports from the investigation specify the confiscated weapons and related items:
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One automatic Kalashnikov rifle with two magazines, plus several other firearms and magazines.
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One F1 defensive hand grenade, equipped with an explosive release mechanism.
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A total of 134 rounds of ammunition of various calibers.
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Cash in multiple currencies, including €12,250 in €50 banknotes suspected to be counterfeit, with the total amount seized reported at approximately €16,120.
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Additional equipment: four electronic scales, three vehicles, 17 mobile phones, and packaging and storage devices.
Authorities explained that the roles within the criminal organization were clearly defined. Fatjon Prendi acted as the overall coordinator, managing plantations, transportation, client relations, and the collection of profits. Elson Ndreca oversaw the plantations and logistics. Brisejda Cami was responsible for the security and storage of drugs, as well as ensuring safe movements in the Attica region. Zoje Ndoj managed part of the funds and communication equipment, while Pashke Gega provided storage facilities.
Arben Mashi, another member of the group, had previous convictions for drug and weapons trafficking and was found in Greece without legal documentation at the time of arrest.
The Greek Prosecutor’s Office and law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigations. The suspects will face multiple charges, including drug trafficking, participation in a criminal organization, and illegal possession of weapons. Authorities are also investigating possible further implications or connections related to this network.
This major crackdown highlights the ongoing efforts by Greek authorities to combat organized crime and drug trafficking in the region. The seizure of large-scale cannabis plantations, weapons, and illicit funds underscores the scale of the operation and the potential impact on the local criminal landscape.
Authorities are urging the public to provide any information that could assist in ongoing investigations. The collaboration between special police units and investigative authorities demonstrates a proactive approach in tackling transnational drug trafficking networks that pose risks to public safety and security.
The arrest of these six individuals and the dismantling of the Albanian drug trafficking network represent a significant step forward in law enforcement efforts in Greece, signaling that criminal networks operating across borders will face comprehensive investigations and severe legal consequences.