In a major international crackdown, law enforcement agencies have successfully dismantled an encrypted communication platform known as “Ghost,” which was widely used by criminal organizations for large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering, Europol announced on Wednesday.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 51 suspects across multiple countries, with further arrests expected as the investigation progresses. “Ghost” had gained a reputation for its robust security features, becoming a go-to tool for criminal networks. Its shutdown marks a significant victory against global organized crime.
“This was truly a global game of cat and mouse, and today, the game is up,” said Europol’s Deputy Executive Director, Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, during a press briefing.
The global operation also prevented several threats to life, dismantled a drug laboratory in Australia, and led to the seizure of weapons, drugs, and over 1 million euros ($1.11 million) in cash. Europol praised the operation as a decisive blow to organized crime.
“Today we have made it clear that no matter how hidden criminal networks think they are, they can’t evade our collective effort,” added Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, referring to the Ghost platform as “a lifeline for serious organized crime.”
The operation was a collaborative effort involving authorities from Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United States, demonstrating a broad international commitment to combating global organized crime. Further disruption of illegal activities is expected as the investigation unfolds.
