Written By Lisa Murimi
More than 50 individuals have been arrested as part of a major international operation that dismantled the encrypted communication platform “Ghost,” used by organized crime networks.
The platform facilitated large-scale drug trafficking, money laundering, and violent criminal activities.
The operation, led by Europol, Eurojust, and international law enforcement, resulted in the arrest of 51 suspects, including 38 in Australia, 11 in Ireland, one in Canada, and one in Italy.
Among those apprehended was a member of the Italian Sacra Corona Unita mafia. Authorities also seized over €1 million in cash, drugs, and weapons.
In Ireland, Gardaí conducted searches across 27 premises, seizing €15.2 million worth of cocaine, €300,000 in cash, and multiple encrypted devices.
The operation involved over 300 officers and international law enforcement partners.
The Ghost platform, known for its sophisticated encryption and self-destructing message feature, was a critical tool for criminals evading detection.
Thousands of messages were exchanged daily on the platform, allowing seamless coordination of illegal activities across borders.
Europol Executive Director Catherine De Bolle hailed the success, stating, “No matter how hidden criminal networks think they are, they can’t evade our collective effort.”
Further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
