Europol dismantles arms trafficking network/ 10 arrested, 7 luxury properties raided in France

2026-06-16 17:04:00, Kronika CNA

Europol dismantles arms trafficking network/ 10 arrested, 7 luxury properties

Europol, in cooperation with French authorities, as well as with the support of the Swiss Federal Police (Fedpol), have dismantled a criminal network that trafficked counterfeit and converted firearms from Turkey to the European Union.

During the days of coordinated action between 8 and 11 June 2026, investigators arrested ten suspects and raided seven luxury properties in southern France, in Fréjus, Cannes, Nice and Marseille. The investigation was carried out by the French National Gendarmerie.

Europol dismantles arms trafficking network/ 10 arrested, 7 luxury properties

The case began in June 2025 after the seizure of two counterfeit pistols hidden inside a luxury car traveling from Switzerland to France. Investigators quickly uncovered a well-structured criminal network composed mainly of Turkish nationals and led by a Turkish-German suspect.

Europol dismantles arms trafficking network/ 10 arrested, 7 luxury properties

Investigators discovered that the network had established an international supply chain specializing in trafficking counterfeit and converted firearms from Turkey to the European Union.

Europol dismantles arms trafficking network/ 10 arrested, 7 luxury properties

Unlike traditional illicit firearms markets, counterfeit weapons are increasingly being manufactured with industrial-level precision, producing replicas that closely resemble real firearms in appearance, durability, and performance. Their availability and reliability make them an attractive option for criminal networks seeking access to lethal weapons while bypassing traditional firearms procurement channels.

Authorities believe the network generated significant profits from supplying these weapons to criminal actors across Europe. Members of the group were found living in luxury villas and apartments in southern France and using expensive vehicles while carrying out their criminal activities. /CNA