Thirteen arrested in raids on organized crime gang

The police raided a total of 19 different locations on Tuesday morning as part of an investigation into organized crime in Groningen. So far 13 people were arrested, the police announced in a statement.

The detainees are suspected of involvement in a criminal organization, money laundering and cannabis trade, cultivation and export. So far the police found seven cannabis plantations.

This investigation was launched late 2015 based on information obtained in other investigations, a DNA match, anonymous tips and information from energy suppliers. This cannabis network came to light during the investigation.

Raids were performed in 17 homes and 2 commercial properties in the city of Groningen, Hoogezand, Appingedam, Uithuizen and Eelde. Drug- and money sniffing dogs were also deployed in the searches.

The police hope that these raids will give more information about the criminal organization and their cannabis network.