Antwerp, Belgium – Customs authorities at the Port of Antwerp intercepted and seized 67 kilogrammes of cocaine on Wednesday, in what officials describe as part of ongoing efforts to combat international drug trafficking.
According to the Federal Public Service (FPS) Finance, the illicit cargo was discovered concealed within the wall of a shipping container at Quay 614. The drugs have since been confiscated and are set to be destroyed under official supervision.
Authorities have launched an investigation to trace the origin of the cocaine and identify those responsible for its attempted smuggling. Investigators are also exploring potential links between the shipment and several suspected drug couriers who were recently apprehended within the port.
Port of Antwerp: A Major Drug Trafficking Hub
The Port of Antwerp is one of Europe’s largest and busiest seaports, handling millions of containers each year. However, its vast logistics network and high cargo volume have made it a prime target for drug cartels attempting to smuggle cocaine from Latin America into Europe.
Belgian authorities have intensified their anti-drug operations in recent years, implementing stringent cargo screenings and increasing police presence. The latest seizure underscores the continued efforts to disrupt the flow of narcotics through the port.
Authorities Step Up Investigations
Officials have not yet disclosed the specific country of origin of the cocaine, but initial findings suggest it may have been trafficked from South America, a common source for shipments of the illicit substance.
The container’s intended recipient is also under scrutiny, with investigators working to determine whether it was destined for Belgian distribution networks or intended for further transit across Europe.
In addition to investigating the shipment, law enforcement agencies are probing possible connections to individuals recently detained at the port. Over the past few days, several suspected drug runners have been arrested in separate incidents, raising suspicions of a broader smuggling operation.
Ongoing Battle Against Drug Smuggling
Belgium has seen a surge in cocaine seizures in recent years, with Antwerp frequently at the centre of high-profile busts. In 2023, customs authorities confiscated a record-breaking 110 tonnes of cocaine at the port, highlighting the scale of the issue.
Belgian and Dutch authorities have ramped up cooperation in tackling drug-related crime, as Antwerp serves as a key entry point for narcotics distributed across Europe. Efforts have included enhanced container scanning technologies, increased personnel, and intelligence-sharing with international partners.
Authorities Remain Vigilant
Despite significant law enforcement efforts, traffickers continue to develop new methods to evade detection, including concealing drugs in unsuspecting cargo, hiding them within shipping containers, and bribing port workers.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on organised crime networks exploiting Belgium’s transport infrastructure. “This seizure is another important step in our fight against drug trafficking,” an FPS Finance spokesperson said. “We will continue working closely with our partners to protect our borders and dismantle these criminal operations.”
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials remain on high alert for further smuggling attempts, underscoring the ongoing challenge of keeping Europe’s ports free from illegal drug shipments.
