Intelligence from encrypted platforms such as Sky ECC and ANOM has facilitated the arrest of 232 individuals and the seizure of millions in assets. This marks a significant achievement in a European law enforcement operation targeting drug trafficking.

Coordinated International Effort

A collaborative effort among international law enforcement agencies, known as Operation BULUT, has successfully dismantled several criminal organizations involved in smuggling illegal drugs into Europe and Türkiye. The operation, named "BULUT" meaning "cloud" in Turkish, was supported by Europol and executed on April 15, 2025.

Authorities carried out synchronized raids across multiple nations, leading to the arrest of over 230 suspects, including key leaders and logistical operatives of these criminal networks.

Role of Encrypted Communication Platforms

The operation's success is largely due to investigators' ability to access and decode information from encrypted communication platforms, despite the challenges posed by various legal jurisdictions. Tools like Sky ECC and ANOM, even after previous law enforcement crackdowns, continue to offer valuable insights into the operations of these clandestine groups.

Participating Countries and Seized Assets

The operation saw participation from authorities in Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Türkiye, with Europol coordinating the efforts. Investigations revealed that these criminal entities, although operating independently, collectively maintained a stronghold in the European drug trade.

  • Authorities seized at least 21 tonnes of drugs, including 3.3 million MDMA tablets.
  • Assets worth over EUR 300 million were confiscated, encompassing 681 properties and 127 vehicles.

Additional Criminal Activities Uncovered

Beyond drug trafficking, the investigation exposed the networks' involvement in other serious crimes, such as money laundering and violence, underscoring the extensive nature of organized criminal activities.

International Intelligence Sharing

French authorities provided decrypted Sky ECC data to Turkey, aiding local investigations into high-profile suspects. Similarly, the Australian Federal Police shared ANOM intelligence with Turkish officials, enhancing their understanding of the criminal networks.

Turkish National Police officers collaborated at Europol’s headquarters, analyzing encrypted communications to identify criminal networks within Türkiye. The initial phase resulted in the arrest of key figures in the drug trafficking hierarchy. Europol then coordinated a second phase to disrupt the networks' operations within EU member states.

Europol's Strategic Role

Europol utilized its vast databases to cross-reference suspect information with passenger records, allowing for discreet surveillance. During the operation, Europol established a real-time coordination platform to facilitate swift decision-making and strategy adjustments.

This operation highlights the critical role of international cooperation and encrypted communication intelligence in combating organized crime. Learn more about the impact of encrypted platforms on law enforcement in our Research section.

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