In a coordinated anti-narcotics operation codenamed “KONTROLLI” (Control), the Kosovo Police Directorate for the Investigation of Narcotics Trafficking successfully intercepted a cross-border drug smuggling ring on Monday morning, June 1, 2026, seizing nearly 26 kilograms of marijuana and arresting three foreign nationals.
The tactical sting operation began at the Vërmica border crossing point, where investigators flagged two suspicious vehicles bearing Serbian license plates entering the country.
Dual Interceptions in Zveçan and Jarinje
After tracking the vehicles from the southern border point, police units split up to execute simultaneous tactical stops in northern Kosovo:
- The Transport Vehicle (Intercepted in Zveçan): Officers conducted an exhaustive search of the first vehicle. Forensic investigators discovered specially modified hidden compartments built into the frame of the car. Inside, police recovered exactly 25.984 kilograms of a suspected narcotic substance identified as marijuana.
- The Scout Vehicle (Intercepted in Jarinje): The second vehicle was stopped at the Jarinje border point. Investigators determined that this driver was operating in the role of an escort or “scout,” tasked with monitoring law enforcement presence and clearing the transit route for the transport vehicle.
Foreign Nationals Detained
The Kosovo Police Forensic Unit was deployed to both scenes to process the evidence and log the vehicle modifications.
Three male suspects linked to the smuggling network were arrested on-site. Authorities confirmed that the group consists of one citizen of Serbia and two citizens of Montenegro.
The state prosecutor has been notified of the operation, and all three suspects are being held in custody pending formal charges of unlawful narcotics trafficking. The Kosovo Police stated that further investigative steps are being conducted in close coordination with state justice bodies to trace the broader regional distribution network.
