Raid in Kerpen: Huge drug laboratory with millions in profits uncovered!

Raid in Kerpen: Huge drug laboratory with millions in profits uncovered!

Weeks of investigative work led to an unprecedented drug discovery in Kerpen. On June 4, 2025, the Essen customs investigation, on behalf of the Cologne public prosecutor's office, uncovered a massive amphetamine laboratory that spanned around 1,500 square meters. This highly professional laboratory was housed in an old agricultural property and was even in operation during the access. The investigation began in April 2025 when information was received about the illegal production and trafficking of narcotics in large quantities. A total of 24 people were temporarily arrested, including six in the laboratory itself.

The result of the raid is impressive: around 30 liters of amphetamine base and 60 liters of amphetamine raw base were seized, as well as 40 tons of waste products that were by-products of drug production. Six firearms – including a military weapon – and almost 30,000 euros in cash were also found. The authorities also found various luxury watches and other evidence. An active reactor in the laboratory had a volume of 2,300 liters, which enabled a high production capacity and thus supported the assumption that the drug values ​​were in the millions. One estimate suggests that up to a ton of amphetamine base could have been recovered from the waste products.

International dimension of the investigation

The dimensions of the drug laboratory case also make international headlines. Various international law enforcement agencies are involved in the current investigation. The Essen customs investigation office, in collaboration with the Cologne public prosecutor's office, is continuing to pursue the matter in order to uncover other masterminds behind the drug empire. A report from stern.de speaks of arrest warrants that have already been issued against four suspects who are now in custody. An unpleasant observation in this context: some of the dangerous chemicals were stored outdoors, which poses a significant risk to the surrounding area.

The searches were not limited to Kerpen alone; Hands were also put in place in Elsdorf, Euskirchen and Hückelhoven. A large amount of evidence was seized in Hückelhoven. It is clear to the investigators: the measures taken due to the enormous size of the drug laboratory are far from complete and the dangers posed by the chemicals must be taken seriously. Given this situation, it remains to be seen what further findings and arrests will follow.

Drug labs in focus

A look at the incidents involving drug labs reveals that this is not the first major case. Numerous similar campaigns were carried out last year. For example, preliminary investigations into a German-Dutch perpetrator group took place, during which large quantities of chemicals and evidence were seized. The evaluation of these results could possibly also be of use to the investigating authorities in Kerpen.

Overall, it is clear that the fight against drug production and trafficking continues to represent a key challenge for the security authorities. The extent of drug production in North Rhine-Westphalia sheds light on the professionalism of the perpetrators and the urgency of further measures. The drug trade that flourishes here has not only local but also international dimensions and requires increased cooperation between countries. Whether the exposed structures are a sign of further investigations will become clear in the coming weeks.

We remain excited about the coming developments. The situation in Kerpen shows once again how crucial rapid investigations and international cooperation are in combating drug trafficking. We'll keep you updated!

Lokalklick.eu reported that the customs investigation was active in Kerpen.

stern.de highlights the international dimension of the investigation.

Zoll.de gives an insight into the structured investigations against drug laboratory operators in Germany.