Seven suspected arms and drug traffickers have been arrested and detained following a series of police raids in the Liège province, the Liège Public Prosecutor's Office announced on Friday.
The investigation began in March this year after 90 kilos of cannabis were mistakenly delivered to Nandrin, in the province of Liège. The Federal Judicial Police in Liège uncovered an organised crime group involved in arms and drug trafficking.
The investigation revealed that between late 2023 and early 2024, eight pallets containing several hundred kilos of drugs were delivered from Spain. The police also discovered illegal activity regarding the purchase and sales of firearms and the packaging of synthetic drugs.
The Federal Police conducted 16 raids on Thursday with help from the local police, special units, anti-banditry units, canine units, and the Liège police coordinator's services. Over 30 officers were involved, resulting in the arrest and questioning of 13 individuals.
A cocaine and synthetic drug processing lab was dismantled in Wanze during the operations. Various drugs were found, including amphetamine paste and oil, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine and morphine, along with cutting agents and pill-making equipment. During the raids, 19 firearms and numerous rounds of ammunition were seized at different locations.
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Investigators also found small amounts of cannabis, prohibited weapons, reinforced bulletproof vests, police-emblazoned balaclavas and armbands, a frequency jammer, a beacon detector, nine cars and three valuable motorcycles.
Additionally, luxury items such as designer watches, clothing, bags and objects were seized, along with over €75,000 in cash and nearly €126,000 frozen in bank accounts.
One raid uncovered protected animals, including a serval, tortoises, white-tufted marmosets, and a sugar glider.
After questioning by investigators and the magistrate, seven suspects were officially charged and detained. They face charges of drug trafficking, arms trafficking, and participation in an organised crime group.
