Wed Sep 18 11:26:56 UTC 2024: ## Global Law Enforcement Dismantles Encrypted Platform ‘Ghost’ Used by Drug Traffickers

**The Hague, Netherlands** – An international operation has successfully dismantled the encrypted communication platform “Ghost,” a notorious tool used by criminal organizations for large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering. The operation, coordinated by Europol, led to the arrest of 51 suspects across multiple countries, with more arrests anticipated.

“This was truly a global game of cat and mouse, and today, the game is up,” said Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, Europol’s Deputy Executive Director. The platform’s advanced security features made it a popular choice among criminal networks, but its dismantling represents a significant blow to global organized crime.

The operation prevented several threats to life, dismantled a drug lab in Australia, and resulted in the global seizure of weapons, drugs, and over €1 million ($1.11 million) in cash. “Today we have made it clear that no matter how hidden criminal networks think they are, they can’t evade our collective effort,” stated Catherine De Bolle, Europol’s Executive Director, calling Ghost “a lifeline for serious organized crime.”

Authorities from Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United States participated in the operation, demonstrating a global commitment to combating organized crime. As the investigation continues, further disruption of illegal activities is anticipated.

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