An international law enforcement operation has successfully dismantled an encrypted communication platform known as “Ghost,” which was widely used by criminal organizations for drug trafficking and money laundering, Europol announced Wednesday.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 51 suspects across multiple countries, with authorities expecting more arrests as the investigation continues. Europol’s Deputy Executive Director Jean-Philippe Lecouffe described the operation as “truly a global game of cat and mouse,” adding, “Today, the game is up.”
The Ghost platform had gained notoriety among criminal networks for its advanced security features. Its takedown represents a significant blow to global organized crime operations, according to Europol officials.
The operation yielded several crucial outcomes, including the prevention of multiple threats to life, the dismantling of a drug lab in Australia, and the global seizure of weapons and drugs. Additionally, authorities confiscated over 1 million euros ($1.11 million) in cash.
Europol’s Executive Director Catherine De Bolle emphasized the platform’s importance to criminal networks, calling Ghost “a lifeline for serious organised crime.” She added, “Today we have made it clear that no matter how hidden criminal networks think they are, they can’t evade our collective effort.”
The operation involved collaboration between law enforcement agencies from Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the United States. This multinational effort underscores a broader commitment to combating global organized crime.
