Colombian suspects were confirmed to be working as chemists for the criminal organization, but they were not able to be arrested. South American cartels have been mastering the laundry process for many years.
The clandestine laboratory in Strée was used for extracting drugs and packaging them. Presses were used to shape compact blocks of cocaine, which were adorned with logos representing car brands or video games. Packaged in this way, the drugs could be safely stored and then distributed to dealers in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, France, and other European countries.
DL and DC, along with Bolle Jos, are being prosecuted as leaders of the criminal organization. DL is also facing charges related to the export of cocaine to England by helicopter in 2017.
The presence of Colombian suspects working as chemists for the organization has been confirmed. However, they could not be arrested. The laundry process has been mastered for several decades by South American cartels.
The clandestine laboratory of Strée served as an extraction laboratory and a place of packaging. On the images of the RTBF, we see presses which were used to shape the breads (compact blocks) of cocaine. The breads were decked out with different logos referring to car brands or video games. Packaged in this way, the drug could be briefly stored and then redistributed to dealers in Belgium or in other European countries (Netherlands, Germany, France, etc.)
Like Bolle Jos, DL and DC are prosecuted as leaders of the criminal organization. In addition, DL will also have to answer for the facts of 2017 related to the export of cocaine to England by helicopter.
In conclusion, the discovery of the clandestine laboratory in Strée sheds light on the intricate operations of South American cartels in Europe. The confirmation of Colombian suspects working as chemists for the organization only adds to the complexity of the investigation. The packaging and branding of cocaine with logos of popular car brands and video games highlights the business-minded approach of the criminal organization. While the leaders of the operation are being prosecuted, the reach of the cartel and their methods of operation continue to be a cause for concern in the fight against drug trafficking.