NCJ Number
142267
Date Published
Unknown
Length
37 pages
Annotation
To understand the drug trafficking system in the Federal Republic of Germany, the international aspects of the drug trade must be recognized in terms of perpetrators, techniques of production and distribution, and financial transactions.
Abstract
The incidence of drug-related offenses in Germany increased slightly in 1991 over 1990 levels; the country has also become a field of operations for drug-trafficking organizations, both as a transit center and a market for illicit drugs. The drug trade is becoming increasingly characterized by professionalism, conspiracy, sophisticated security, and strict organizational hierarchies. The primary objectives of German law enforcement are to break up drug trafficking organizations, siphon off profits, prevent drug cultivation and production, seize drugs, fight drug-related crimes, and prevent illicit drug use. Several measures are in place to assist in these efforts: special task forces, data processing systems, interagency cooperation, intelligence and covert operations, financial investigations, surveillance, and international cooperation. While some segments of German society advocate the liberalization of drug laws or legalization of some drugs, this author adamantly opposes such steps.