EMPACT NATIONAL CO-ORDINATORS MEETING - STATS RE DRUG SEIZURES IN 2024 - Filenews 2/4
The meeting of the EMPACT National Coordinators took place from March 31 to April 1, under the chairmanship of Police Officer B Kyriaki Lambrianidou, with the participation of more than 150 representatives from EU member states, Union services, Schengen associated countries and third countries.
EMPACT, according to the Police announcement, is the spearhead of European cooperation in the fight against serious criminal threats, such as internet crime, drug trafficking, irregular migration, organized criminal groups operating internationally, financial crime, etc. Through joint actions, exchange of information and coordinated operations, the security of EU citizens and beyond is strengthened every day.
In 2024, through EMPACTs, the investigation of 6,635 international cases began, 13,575 persons were arrested, more than 5,000 victims were identified and rescued. At the same time, real estate and money amounting to €1.05 billion were seized. Also, in the same context, 85 tons of drugs were seized.
"Cooperation is not an option, it is a necessity. And Europe is proving that when it works together, it can effectively tackle crime across borders. The Cyprus Police had the honour of presiding over and playing a serious role in this process and has already committed to assist even more actively in the future", the announcement concludes.
