Trento - The Italian state police have struck a major blow against a criminal organization in the province of Trento. During a large-scale raid in the early hours of the morning under the name „Operation Drug & Gold“, 23 arrest warrants were executed. 20 suspects were remanded in custody and three others were placed under house arrest.
The accused are charged with a total of 201 criminal offenses by the public prosecutor's office in Trento. The charges range from the formation of a criminal organization to drug trafficking and numerous burglaries, which allegedly took place mainly in the summer and autumn of 2024.
Two gangs shared the „work“
Investigations by the criminal investigation department (Squadra Mobile) of Trento uncovered the structure and interaction of two criminal groups. According to the police, one group, consisting mainly of Eastern European nationals, had established itself in Mattarello, Piana Rotaliana and Val di Non. It is said to have been responsible for both burglaries and drug trafficking.
The second group, consisting mainly of North Africans, concentrated on selling drugs in the city of Trento.
Professionally organized network
The two gangs apparently cooperated closely and formed an association firmly rooted in Trentino. The Eastern European group is said to have supplied the North African group with narcotics. Investigators describe the network as well organized and professionally prepared. It had vehicles, various telephone lines and real estate that served as logistical bases.
Prior to the raid, six people had already been arrested in the act and nine others were charged. During the searches, 4.5 kg of cocaine, around 14 kg of hashish and 112,000 euros in cash, presumably the proceeds of drug trafficking, were seized. The officers also found a stolen semi-automatic pistol.
Over 160 police officers were involved in the operation, including special units, drug and explosives detection dogs and a police helicopter. The authorities point out that the presumption of innocence applies to all suspects until a final conviction.
