Actions against an organised crime group (OCG) that trafficked hashish from Spain came to a successful end with the arrest of the leaders of the OCG and the seizure of 1 200 kilos of hashish. The drugs have a street value ranging from EUR 12 and EUR 24 million.
The OCG leaders were located in Spain, and members were also present in Estonia. Drugs were stashed in specially constructed hiding places in cars, which then travelled long distances to locations in Estonia and the Russian Federation.
Eurojust played a crucial role in this case. The Estonian and Spanish National Desks were available 24/7 during the six-month surveillance procedure. In addition, in 2015, Eurojust held three coordination meetings and a video conference. Eurojust’s assistance was also required to resolve language issues, provide support in the execution of four European Arrest Warrants, respond to legal questions, and assist in the agreement of next steps.
One OCG member was arrested in Poland on the basis of information supplied by the Estonian and Spanish authorities, and 100 kilos of hashish were seized. Seven people were detained in Estonia, and four were charged. Five suspects were arrested in Spain and surrendered to Estonia. Twenty-seven searches of houses and cars took place in Estonia, seven took place in Spain, and two took place in Poland. EUR 18 000 cash and six cars were seized in Spain.
Sentences in Estonia for leadership of an OCG range from six to twenty years, with life sentences in certain cases. OCG members can receive sentences from three to 12 years. Convicted drug traffickers can receive sentences from three to 15 years.
Related links:
Implementation Report of the Action Plan on Drug Trafficking, January 2015
Eurojust strategic meeting on drug trafficking 2014
http://www.eurojust.europa.eu/press/pressreleases/pages/2014/2014-09-30.aspx
Eurojust News issue #3 on drug trafficking
