Two suspected leaders of a gang of dealers from Kottbusser Tor were caught during a search. A total of 110 police forces, including officers from the special operations command (SEK), were involved in searches at a total of eleven locations, mainly in Berlin-Kreuzberg. They confiscated almost 100,000 euros and several kilograms of drugs, as the police and prosecutors announced on Wednesday.
The investigations against at least six men of the dealer gang between the ages of 24 and 39 were carried out using Encrochat encryption software. The service is used by organized crime to conduct illegal business. It is considered unbreakable because of its complex encryption.
Most of the drugs, including mainly marijuana, hashish and cocaine, but also small amounts of heroin and testosterone, were found on Ritterstrasse in Berlin-Kreuzberg. This is where the two alleged leaders, aged 24 and 31, were arrested. Another 39-year-old accomplice is on the run. The three men are largely responsible for supplying the dealers at Kottbusser Tor.
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The Kottbusser Tor is known for street crime. In addition to drug trafficking, thefts and violent clashes are common there. Berlin’s Interior Senator Iris Spranger (SPD) recently stressed that there should soon be a permanent police station at Kottbusser Tor. The police presence and visibility should be “significantly increased” there – by a guard manned around the clock. There should also be video surveillance. (dpa)
