Major Police Operation Targets Bosnian Drug Cartel, Arresting High-Ranking Officials

In a significant development, Bosnian authorities have launched a major police operation codenamed 'Black guy 2' targeting associates of Edin Gačanin's 'Tito and Dino' drug cartel. The operation, carried out by the Prosecutor's Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina with support from international agencies like the FBI, DEA, and Europol, has led to the arrest of several high-profile individuals, including Mustafa Selmanović, the head of the Special Police of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sarajevo businessman Gordan Memija.

More than 15 people are suspected of involvement in organized crime, illegal drug trafficking, money laundering, and other related crimes. The arrests were made in Sarajevo, Zenica, and Mostar, with a total of 22 individuals apprehended, including high-ranking police officials and other law enforcement personnel. Evidence from encrypted communication apps was used in the investigation.

Why this matters: The operation highlights the ongoing fight against organized crime and corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the ties between drug cartels and high-ranking officials. The involvement of international agencies underscores the global nature of the problem and the need for coordinated efforts to combat it.

The main target of the operation is Edin Gačanin, known as 'Tito,' the biggest Balkan drug lord with Dutch citizenship. Gačanin had previously made a deal with the Prosecutor's Office in the Netherlands and was sentenced to seven years in prison and a fine of one million euros for drug smuggling. The current operation aims to dismantle Gačanin's cartel, which included members of his family and friends from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This is not the first time Bosnian police have had to arrest their own officers, as similar arrests have occurred in the past. The operation is expanding to Republika Srpska as well, indicating the wide reach of the drug cartel's influence.

Commenting on the arrests, a spokesperson for the Prosecutor's Office stated, "Today's operation is a significant step in our ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina. We will continue to work closely with our international partners to bring those involved in these illegal activities to justice." The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses.

Key Takeaways

• Bosnian authorities launch major police operation 'Black guy 2' against drug cartel.
• Several high-profile arrests, including police officials, in Sarajevo, Zenica, and Mostar.
• Operation targets Edin Gačanin's 'Tito and Dino' drug cartel with international support.
• Arrests highlight ties between organized crime and high-ranking officials in Bosnia.
• Investigation ongoing, with further details expected as the case progresses.