Greek Authorities Confiscate 34 Kilograms of Cocaine Hidden in Banana Container.

The Hellenic Coast Guard recently intercepted a shipment of cocaine hidden in a refrigerated container of bananas arriving from South America. This discovery comes shortly after Greek and U.S. authorities dismantled a suspected drug smuggling ring targeting Europe. During an inspection of three containers at the Piraeus container terminal, authorities found 30 slabs of cocaine weighing a total of 34 kilograms and 354 grams, with an estimated value of €1 million ($1.1 million). The shipment is currently under investigation, with collaboration between Greek and U.S. law enforcement agencies.

Bananas have become a favored method for drug cartels to conceal narcotics during smuggling operations. In recent years, significant drug seizures have been made in European countries, including the UK, Spain, and the Netherlands, all involving shipments of bananas from South America. In May 2024, Greek authorities, in cooperation with American counterparts, arrested two Albanians and two Greeks in possession of 210 kilos of cocaine hidden in a shipment of shrimp at the port of Piraeus, along with weapons and cash.

The surge in drug smuggling activities in European ports has prompted increased efforts to enhance security measures and crack down on criminal operations. As major ports like Rotterdam and Antwerp intensify their security protocols, smugglers are turning to smaller and regional ports to evade detection. Law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to combat the influx of illegal drugs and dismantle organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking.

Source .