Cocaine should not be present on a quality pizza. However, a pizzeria in Dusseldorf, Germany, was raided for serving cocaine alongside pizza. Over three pounds of cocaine and nearly $290,000 were discovered during the raid. German police discovered a drug ring as well as two cannabis plantations while conducting their investigation. The Pizzeria manager, 36, was arrested and then attempted to flee the country.
Pizzeria’s Secret Ingredient Revealed
In a shocking turn of events, German authorities discovered a pizzeria in Düsseldorf serving more than just Italian food. The restaurant, once known for its pizza, became the focus of a major drug trafficking investigation after police discovered cocaine being discreetly offered alongside menu items.
A tip from food inspectors sparked the investigation, which culminated in a police raid on the pizzeria. When officers arrived at the 36-year-old manager’s apartment, he attempted to dispose of evidence by throwing a bag through the window. However, his scheme failed spectacularly.
The pizzeria manager and several other suspects were arrested, with police seizing drugs, weapons, and cash.https://t.co/BvQXFScOA7
— euronews (@euronews) October 22, 2024
A Slice of the Drug Trade
The raid uncovered more than just a cocaine distribution ring. Police seized more than three pounds of cocaine, approximately 400 grams of marijuana, and nearly $290,000 in cash. These findings suggested that the operation was much larger than previously thought.
In an unexpected twist, the pizzeria manager was initially released and proudly resumed selling pizza. However, the reprieve was brief. As the investigation progressed, authorities discovered links to a larger drug ring based in Düsseldorf.
🚨 47 sedative pills traffickers arrested and over 6 million illegally exported pills seized in international operation against drug trafficking network
Details ⤵️https://t.co/2xMcHwUSMV pic.twitter.com/weKZeg1k8z
— Europol (@Europol) October 18, 2024
Uncovering a Wider Network
The initial raid was just the tip of the iceberg. Further investigation revealed two cannabis plantations that housed approximately 360 plants. In addition to the drugs, police seized weapons, additional cash, and luxury watches, demonstrating the operation’s scope and profitability.
Authorities raided the homes and businesses of a dozen drug ring suspects. Three people were arrested as a result of these operations, which dealt a significant blow to the network.
The pizzeria manager, who had been released briefly, was apprehended again while attempting to flee the country and is still in custody.
This case is a stark reminder of how seemingly legitimate businesses can be used as fronts for criminal operations. It also emphasizes the ongoing challenges that law enforcement faces in combating drug trafficking, even in unlikely places like local eateries.
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