Italian businessman : Europol: European Gangs Infiltrating Legal World

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. European criminal gangs
2. Legal world infiltration by gangs in Europe

Criminal networks in the European Union are infiltrating legal businesses, relying on corruption to expand their activities, according to a report by the EU crime agency, Europol. With 821 threatening criminal networks and over 25,000 members identified in the bloc, 86% of these networks can infiltrate the legal economy to launder their profits. The report highlights examples of Italian businessmen involved in drug trafficking and money laundering, as well as the powerful ‘Ndrangheta syndicate from Italy. Drug trafficking and corruption are major concerns for EU officials, with a focus on combating violence and intimidation. The data will be shared with law enforcement agencies to target criminals effectively.

Organized Crime Networks Infiltrating Legal Businesses Across the European Union

A recent report published by the EU crime agency, Europol, has shed light on the alarming rise of criminal networks infiltrating legal businesses across the 27-nation bloc. This trend is particularly concerning as these networks heavily rely on corruption to further their criminal activities.

Europol’s Findings

Europol has identified 821 highly threatening criminal networks operating within the EU, with a total membership exceeding 25,000 individuals. Shockingly, 86% of these networks have managed to penetrate the legal economy in order to conceal their illicit activities and launder their criminal proceeds.

Real-Life Examples

The report highlights a case involving a gang leader who is described as an Italian businessman of Argentinian descent residing in Marbella, Spain. This individual is involved in drug trafficking and money laundering, and uses a network of companies, including a banana import business from Ecuador, to mask his criminal enterprises. Additionally, the report mentions the ‘Ndrangheta crime syndicate from Italy, known for its extensive drug and arms trafficking operations across Europe.

Global Reach

One striking aspect of these criminal networks is their multinational composition, with members hailing from 112 different nationalities. Despite their global reach, the majority of these networks maintain a strong geographical focus in their core operations.

Main Activities

Drug trafficking and corruption are identified as the primary concerns for EU officials, with drug-related crimes on the rise in countries such as Belgium and France. More than 70% of these criminal networks engage in corruption to facilitate their activities, while 68% resort to violence and intimidation as part of their modus operandi.

Regional Impact

In Belgium, the city of Antwerp serves as a key entry point for Latin American cocaine cartels into Europe, leading to a surge in gang violence and drug-related issues. The European commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, has highlighted organized crime as one of the most significant threats facing society today.

Collaborative Efforts

Europol plans to share the data gathered with law enforcement agencies in EU member states to enhance the targeting of criminal networks. By working together, authorities aim to combat the growing influence of organized crime and safeguard communities across the European Union.