Albanian arrest in Peru: Mill was sold instead of cocaine, payments only in Bitcoin

Following the arrest of Albanian Maglent Dübel, who allegedly led a network of cocaine trafficking in Peru, local media have discovered new details about the functioning of the international-wide criminal organisation, which was hit by anti-drug authorities.

According to reports, the group had built a sophisticated scheme that combined illegal drug trafficking with fraud against buyers and international organisations with the aim of obtaining large sums of money.

Investigations revealed the organization's internal structure, membership roles, and methods of carrying out criminal activity.

Authorities suggest that the network offered large amounts of cocaine to foreign customers, using manipulated videos that simulated drug transport from production areas to Callao port. These images served to create credibility in buyers and to disguise illegal activity as a regular operation.

At the heart of fraud was the replacement of much of the flour load, while only one package contained real drugs. Thus, after providing advance payments, the group benefited by defrauding customers. According to the investigation, the organisation had managed to secure over $60,000 from these schemes.

The network consisted of Peruvian and foreign citizens. A key role was played by a person with the nickname “Pantro”, which dealt with co-ordinating operations, while an Albanian citizen allegedly acted as a sponsor. Another member operated from Colombia, witnessing the group's international expansion.

The organisation's discovery became possible thanks to a deepening investigation by Peruvian anti-drug intelligence structures (DIRANDRO), which used advanced surveillance and documentation techniques. Operations ended with checks in several areas, including Callao, Cosmos and Los Olyvos.

During the intervention, police seized narcotics, materials for its processing, forged documents and financial records, which are expected to serve as key evidence in the criminal process.

Investigations also revealed the use of cryptocles, such as bitumen, for making payments, which enabled members to avoid financial investigation and preserve anonymity.

In total, five people were arrested, while the court has appointed the detention measure for 18 months. The case follows to be investigated to determine each of the involved's full criminal responsibilities.