Criminals swapping ketamine for salt. #Addiction #Europe #BBCNews

Key Concepts:

• Ketamine diversion
• Drug trafficking
• Forged paperwork
• Criminal networks
• Ketamine vs. Cocaine profitability

Ketamine Diversion and Potential Criminal Involvement

A senior European police officer reported to the BBC the potential disappearance of 28 tons of ketamine, suggesting it may be in the hands of criminals. This discovery originated from a shipment of ketamine originating in India, destined for Kenya, but transiting through Europe.

The Austrian Case Study: A Ton of Ketamine Replaced with Salt

The investigation began with a specific incident involving a ton of ketamine arriving in Austria. The shipment was supposed to travel across Europe to Kenya. During a 5-hour leg of the journey, the lorry transporting the ketamine went missing for 5 days. Upon arrival at the final airport, customs officials discovered that the ketamine had been replaced with salt. The accompanying paperwork was also determined to be forged.

Wider Investigation and Scale of the Problem: 28 Tons Missing

Following the Austrian incident, police expanded their investigation to other lorries transporting ketamine on similar routes. This broader investigation revealed that potentially 28 tons of ketamine had disappeared.

Criminal Methodology and UK Connection

The police officer believes that criminals are intercepting the ketamine shipments and diverting the drugs into vans. These vans are then used to transport the ketamine into the UK.

Profitability Shift: Ketamine More Lucrative Than Cocaine

The police officer stated that criminals are now generating more profit from ketamine trafficking than from cocaine. This suggests a significant shift in the drug market dynamics.

Conclusion

The disappearance of 28 tons of ketamine represents a significant security concern. The investigation highlights the sophistication of criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, their ability to forge documents, and their willingness to exploit vulnerabilities in the supply chain. The shift in profitability from cocaine to ketamine indicates a changing landscape in the illicit drug trade, with potential implications for law enforcement strategies and public health.