Ecuador has joined a significant European law enforcement operation aimed at dismantling an international money laundering network that facilitated the transfer of illicit funds generated from drug shipments from South America to Europe. This extensive investigation was led by the French National Gendarmerie in collaboration with the Carabinieri of Italy and the Swiss Federal Police, alongside support from various European and local agencies, including the Federal Judicial Police of Antwerp in Belgium, the Bulgarian State Agency for National Security, Germany’s Customs, and the National Police of Ecuador. The coordination of this operation was managed by Europol and Eurojust, emphasizing a strong multinational approach to tackling drug-related financial crime.

The involvement of Europol began in 2023, marking this operation as one of the agency's most active initiatives from its European Financial and Economic Crime Center. Additionally, in 2024, a joint investigation team was established under Eurojust, comprising representatives from France, Italy, and Switzerland, to facilitate judicial coordination. This structure allowed for enhanced cooperation among law enforcement entities across various nations, demonstrating the commitment to confronting the challenges posed by organized crime linked to narcotics trafficking.

As a result of this operation, seven individuals were arrested, and assets valued at over 5 million were recovered, highlighting the financial ramifications of drug trafficking networks. The success of this operation underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling complex criminal enterprises that extend beyond borders. Such operations exemplify how collaborative efforts can dismantle sophisticated networks and send a clear message about the serious repercussions of engaging in narcotics trafficking and money laundering.