NCJ Number
147130
Journal
European Journal of Criminal Policy and Research Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: (1993) Pages: 10-30
Date Published
1993
Length
21 pages
Annotation
The author examines the drug market and the organized defrauding of the upperworld economy in this discussion of organized crime in Europe.
Abstract
From the beginning of discussions on an integrated Europe without internal border controls, some law enforcement experts worried that this would enhance opportunities for drug traffickers. However, instead of focusing on concerns about the free movement of criminal goods and persons in Europe, this author concentrates on examining the structure and prospects of different market segments. The illicit drug trade is divided into the markets for heroin, cocaine, cannabis, and synthetic drugs. It appears that the drug market is not influenced by the unification of the member states of the European Community, but by market demand and expected profits. On the other hand, the market of legal goods and services and associated fraudulent criminal enterprises are directly influenced by developments in the European market. Areas particularly vulnerable to organized crime include VAT and excise regulations, consumer electronics, and the mineral oil market. 29 notes and 42 references