NCJ Number
146731
Journal
European Journal on Criminal Policy and Research Volume: 1 Issue: 2 Pages: 96-104
Date Published
1994
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article is an overview of the various narcotic drug rings operating in networks across Europe and the type of criminal organizations behind these networks.
Abstract
The importation of and the bulk trade in heroin are mostly controlled by South East Asian, Pakistani, and Turkish organizations, which operate in the export countries as well as in the Netherlands. The cocaine trade is for the greater part controlled by organizations of Colombian, Antillean, Surinamese, and Dutch origin. The cannabis market is dominated by Dutch groups. The Netherlands play a pivotal role in the importation, exportation and transit of narcotic drugs. In addition, production and distribution of amphetamine are also in the hands of Dutch criminal organizations. In view of the enormous investments and financial interests at stake, and the necessity of maintaining continuity of supply and distribution, only professional narcotic drug organizations and groups will be able to sustain a fixed share of the market. Realization of the existing plans for the creation of Europol, starting with a European Drugs Unit -- a non-executive European Intelligence service in the area of narco-crime -- would be a major step forward in identifying those criminal networks active in Europe. Footnotes