Suche
Mein Konto
Breathtaking drug discovery: 2 million Captagon tablets in Saxony-Anhalt!
Police discover 2.1 million Captagon tablets in the Saale district: a drug discovery worth 25 million euros in the vegetable trade.
Breathtaking drug discovery: 2 million Captagon tablets in Saxony-Anhalt!
In a sensational drug discovery in Landsberg, Saxony-Anhalt, investigators have seized more than 2 million tablets of the synthetic drug Captagon. The value of the seized material is estimated at around 25 million euros, making this case one of the largest individual Captagon seizures in Germany. The main customs office in Dresden was able to detect the drugs using a mobile X-ray system that examined all pallets in a vegetable store. In total, over 360 kilograms of Captagon were discovered hidden in 975 olive jars. MDR reports on the further investigations underway against those responsible, although it is unclear where the suspects are currently located.
Although the police remain silent about the number of perpetrators and the origin of the drugs, they say that the seized drugs were probably not intended for the German market. The State Criminal Police Office (LKA) explains that Captagon has so far played a minor role in direct sales in Saxony-Anhalt and that the drugs are intended more for onward transport abroad. This suggests that Captagon, originally developed as a drug in the 1960s, is in high demand in the global drug market. Today's form of smuggling mainly contains amphetamine and leads to serious addictions and health problems. The time has summarized that use is particularly widespread in the Middle East, with the drug often produced in Syria and linked to terrorist activities.
Health risks
As a comprehensive review of studies shows, Captagon has highly addictive properties and can lead to mental and physical problems, such as depression, hallucinations and anxiety. This drug has a stimulating effect and increases alertness and physical performance, but comes with a high risk of serious health complications. Research papers show that misuse of Captagon is significantly increasing the burden on healthcare systems while addiction to the drug continues to increase.
Overall, the falling trend in amphetamines in Germany is notable - from 3,432 in 2018 to 2,115 in 2024 - while the amount of amphetamines found has increased over the same period. Concrete figures indicate that the seized volume has doubled in the last two years, which indicates a growing problem in the region. According to reports, around 43.9 kilograms worth 439,000 euros were seized in 2023, while in 2024 the value rose to over one million euros at 100.3 kilograms.
The situation surrounding Captagon and its smuggling remains tense and requires urgent action. The LKA and environmental protection authorities are faced with the challenge of combating these illegal networks and curbing drug abuse. The developments make it clear that a lot of educational work still needs to be done here.