Raid in Kerpen: Huge drug laboratory with amphetamines uncovered!

Raid in Kerpen: Huge drug laboratory with amphetamines uncovered!

In a spectacular raid on June 4, 2025, the Essen customs investigation uncovered a huge drug laboratory in Kerpen, North Rhine-Westphalia. The investigation had been ongoing since April 2025 and was directed against a group of perpetrators suspected of dealing in synthetic drugs on a large scale. A total of 24 people were provisionally arrested, and the Cologne district court issued arrest warrants against four of them on strong suspicion of drug trafficking and the unlawful production of narcotics. The laboratory was known as “highly professional” and spanned an impressive 1,500 square meters in an old agricultural property.

Impressive quantities were seized during the search: around 30 liters of amphetamine base and 60 liters of raw base. There are also six firearms, including a military weapon, almost 30,000 euros in cash and even luxury watches. Around 40 tons of waste products were also confiscated. Experts estimate that about a ton of amphetamine base could have been produced from these waste products. At the time of use, the reactor was active for the production of amphetamine, with an impressive capacity of 2,300 liters, enabling production in the high three-digit kilogram range. The value of the seized drugs amounts to several million euros, which the investigation has not yet concluded.

Raid and international connections

The searches took place not only in Kerpen, but also in the neighboring towns of Elsdorf, Euskirchen and Hückelhoven. Altogether there were six objects that were examined, which underlines the dimensions of the operation. The investigation is a joint project between the Essen customs investigation office and the Cologne public prosecutor's office. Information from international law enforcement authorities is also being incorporated into the ongoing investigations, which indicates an extensive network.

Compared to global trends, drug trafficking is a serious problem. According to Statista, approximately 296 million adults worldwide have used drugs, with a shocking number of 13.4 million drug addicts. Every year more than 200,000 people die as a result of drug use, a problem that has not only local but also international dimensions.

Perspectives and future

The measures surrounding the drug laboratory have not yet been completely completed due to its “enormous size” and the dangerous chemicals. The authorities are faced with the challenge of fully clarifying the background to drug trafficking and countering the sharp increase in drug crime more effectively. The situation in Germany reflects only a fraction of a global problem that continues to affect many countries. A good hand and a collaborative approach from everyone involved are required here in order to get the dangers of the drug market under control.

Overall, this case impressively shows how extensive the drug trade is and the challenges that law enforcement has to overcome. Society is required to take this problem seriously and develop solutions together.