Berlin Cracks Down on Organized Crime Tied to Africa and Asia

Situation Report: Millions in Damage Caused by Criminal Gangs in Berlin - Berlin's Organized Crime Surge Exposes Global Smuggling Networks in 2024

Berlin police have uncovered a sharp rise in organised crime, with 55 major investigations launched in 2024. These cases involved 371 suspects and caused financial damages totalling €6.9 million. Authorities also seized assets worth €2.9 million during the crackdown.

Drug trafficking remains a key focus, with cannabis, cocaine and amphetamines the most traded substances. Investigators noted that many deals now happen online through social media and encrypted messaging apps. Of the 55 cases, 20 targeted drug smuggling networks.

Criminal groups from Eastern Europe dominate the stolen vehicle trade, dismantling cars and selling parts across Asia and Africa. Over the past five years, smuggling routes have shifted toward North Africa—particularly Morocco and Tunisia—as well as the Middle East, including Turkey and Lebanon. Morocco now serves as the top destination for luxury vehicles, while Turkey handles car parts and Nigeria deals in bulk smuggling.

Human smuggling suspects often come from Southeast Asia, whereas trafficking for sexual or labour exploitation mostly involves offenders from Southeast Europe. Police data also showed that 32% of suspects held German citizenship, while the majority were foreign nationals.

Berlin ranks fifth in Germany for organised crime cases, trailing larger states like North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria. The investigations highlight the growing complexity of cross-border networks, from drug sales moving online to stolen vehicles being shipped globally. Authorities continue to track these evolving criminal operations.