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27 arrests and 248 potential victims identified in action week against labour exploitation
Europol, the European Labour Authority (ELA), and 34 participating countries today announced the results of an action week targeting human trafficking for labour exploitation. The operation, part of an EMPACT action led by Sweden, brought together police, border guards, labour and social security inspectorates, and tax authorities to crack down on exploitative practices in high-risk sectors such as agriculture, construction, cosmetic services, massage parlours, and hospitality. -
5th EMPACT Hackathon leads to the detection of 51 potential victims
An international operation involving 40 experts and investigators from 20 countries has identified 51 potential victims of human trafficking, as well as five suspects. Held in Amsterdam from 23 to 25 September 2026, the fifth EMPACT Hackathon against the digital aspects of human trafficking brought together police officers, labour authorities and specialists in online investigations, supported by Europol and Eurojust. -
Keeping pace with e-evidence: New report examines Europe’s digital forensic capabilities
Coordinated by the European Commission in cooperation with Europol, the analysis draws on stakeholder consultations, dedicated meetings, surveys and contributions from experts at Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre.The findings point to common challenges: investigative tools, resources and expertise are struggling to keep pace with the forms and volume of digital evidence created by modern technologiesDigitalisation shaping evidence landscapeDigital information is spread... -
European and Ecuadorian cooperation leads to 20 arrests in major hit against drug trafficking
The operation, codenamed Operation CANTABRIA, underscores the success of strong cooperation between European and Ecuadorian law enforcement agencies, proving that joint efforts are key to tackling transnational criminal networks.Magnus BrunnerEU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration“International cooperation is our greatest strength against drug trafficking. Criminal networks know no borders, and neither can our response. This operation shows what we can... -
Almost 50 arrested as police target Western Balkan network linked to killings
Nearly 50 suspects have been arrested in an international operation targeting a drug trafficking network with Western Balkan members, linked to killings, kidnappings and grenade attacks across Europe.
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