Hamburg Urges Port Workers to Reject Drug Smugglers

Hamburg’s port is a key entry point for cocaine smuggling into Europe, attracting cartels due to the drug’s popularity and high price. While not as busy as Rotterdam or Antwerp, Hamburg is a regional hub for illicit trade. Local authorities are urging port employees to avoid involvement in smuggling to protect themselves and the port’s reputation.

Internal collaborators are crucial for narcotics smuggling networks, with port staff helping criminals gain access to storage yards and evade law enforcement. Gangs use various tactics to coerce employees, including threats and bribes. The EU-supported INOK project aims to combat smuggling in Northern Europe by raising awareness, investigating corruption, and enhancing collaboration with maritime companies.

The problem is significant, with a record 116 tonnes of cocaine seized in Antwerp in 2023. German authorities are working with Rotterdam and Antwerp to prevent the trade from shifting to Hamburg. The value of cocaine in Europe is substantial, with a wholesale price of $37,000 per kilo and a retail price of $75 per gram. The high profits make cocaine smuggling a lucrative industry, despite the risks of interception and seizure.

Source .