Greece Arrests Five Members of a Cocaine Trafficking Ring from Venezuela to Europe

Web Editor

December 15, 2025

a flag flying in the wind over a body of water with buildings in the background and cloudy skies abo

International Drug Trafficking Operation Disrupted by Greek Authorities

On Monday, Greek police announced the arrest of five suspected members of an international criminal network involved in trafficking approximately seven tonnes of cocaine from Venezuela to Europe aboard a Greek fishing vessel.

Collaborative Investigation with the DEA

The arrests, executed in various locations across Greece, resulted from a joint investigation initiated in collaboration with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), according to an anonymous police official.

Key Details of the Operation

  • The fishing vessel departed from a small port in northern Greece’s Salonica, heading towards Latin America.
  • Investigators believe the ship later loaded up to seven tonnes of cocaine along Venezuela’s coastline.
  • The police did not disclose the final destination of the ship.
  • Five additional individuals on board were detained by French authorities, who also escorted the vessel through the Atlantic Ocean for the past two days.
  • The ship is expected to dock at a French port.

Greek Investigation into Vessel Owner

Greece has launched an investigation into the vessel’s owner, who has a criminal history related to drug offenses.

In recent years, Greece has intensified its efforts against drug trafficking as Europe has become one of the primary markets for cocaine.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who was arrested? Five suspected members of an international criminal network involved in cocaine trafficking.
  • From where to where was the cocaine being transported? The cocaine was transported from Venezuela to Europe aboard a Greek fishing vessel.
  • Which agencies collaborated in the operation? The Greek police worked alongside the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
  • What was the final destination of the vessel? The police did not disclose the final destination.
  • Who detained the additional individuals on board? French authorities detained five individuals on the vessel.
  • What actions has Greece taken against drug trafficking? Greece has intensified its efforts against drug trafficking, focusing on cocaine as one of Europe’s primary markets.