Lithuanian police seize over a tonne of cocaine in major anti-drug operation

Lithuanian law enforcement has dismantled a large-scale cocaine trafficking network, seizing more than a tonne of the drug and detaining 13 suspects—all Lithuanian nationals—LRT reports.

Over 1,000 kilograms of cocaine were confiscated during the operation, with 800 kilograms intercepted in Lithuania and a further 220 kilograms seized in Germany, according to Saulius Briginas, deputy head of the Lithuanian Criminal Police Bureau (LKPB). The street value of the drugs is estimated at €15 million wholesale and up to €70 million at retail prices.

Briginas described the pre-trial investigation as a “strong blow” to organised crime, noting that the operation disrupted a major trafficking route into Lithuania and other EU countries. He added that the case highlights growing professionalism among drug traffickers, who increasingly collaborate across organised criminal groups.

The cocaine was smuggled under the cover of legitimate or falsified business activities, with investigators identifying over 10 companies used as fronts. The drugs were stored in Kaunas warehouses before being prepared for distribution across Europe.

The operation unfolded in stages: German authorities first seized 220 kg in November, followed by Lithuanian police confiscating 330 kg in December, another 260 kg later that month, and a final 240 kg in January. The latter shipment was hidden in a maritime container of scrap metal from Panama, discovered at Klaipėda port after customs analysts flagged suspicious routing. The cocaine was concealed in welded compartments within 21 metal structures.

Mantas Kaušilas, director of Lithuania’s Customs Criminal Service, said the container’s illogical shipping route from Panama raised red flags. Investigators later determined the drugs may have been loaded in Costa Rica or Panama.

More than 60 searches were conducted during the Lithuanian phase of the operation.