Slovenian police said an almost four-year investigation has ended with the dismantling of a highly organised international crime group linked to drug smuggling and trafficking, illegal weapons and explosive manufacture and trafficking, and harmful medicinal products. The final action day was carried out on 6 October 2026 in a joint operation by several police units in Slovenia and Spain, uncovering illegal profits exceeding 37 million euros. Police carried out 41 house searches in Slovenia and one in Spain. Thirty-four suspects were apprehended in Slovenia and one in Spain. Fifteen suspects were remanded in custody, then brought before investigating judges at the Ljubljana District Court for questioning after criminal charges were filed. One main suspect was arrested by Croatian law enforcement a few days earlier and remained in custody pending extradition on the basis of a Slovenian European Arrest Warrant. The custody for the 15 detained suspects in Slovenia was extended by investigating judges. Investigators said the group operated with an internal hierarchical structure, with members assigned clearly defined roles. The investigation also pointed to a high level of violence, including shootings, murders, attempted murders, kidnapping, and the use of explosive devices, including hand grenades, when illicit drug shipments failed or internal disputes erupted. During the final stages of the operation, police seized large quantities of illicit drugs and cash, as well as firearms. A cannabis-growing facility was also discovered. Officers said the seizures represent only part of the activity they have succeeded in proving so far. Members of the crime syndicate were active in different European countries and lived in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Spain and the Netherlands. Slovenian police said international cooperation was crucial, with cooperation involving police forces from 22 countries across the EU and the Western Balkans, including coordination with Europol. The case status is at the charge and custody stage, with suspects held and brought before the investigating judges after the final operation.