Police uncover drug gang in Vienna: Five arrests in bunker apartments

Police uncover drug gang in Vienna: Five arrests in bunker apartments

In Vienna, the police launched a large-scale operation against a drug gang. On March 29, 2025, there were several arrests and searches that marked a significant blow to drug trafficking in the city. The EGS task force was able to arrest five suspects, including three men with Serbian nationality and two other suspects of Turkish and Austrian origin.

The first arrests took place on March 26, when three men aged 25, 26 and 36 were arrested in Favoriten. The following day, March 27th, a 21-year-old Turk and a 25-year-old Austrian were arrested in Margareten. During the searches in two so-called “bunker apartments”, the officers found considerable evidence.

Drugs and cash discovered

A total of around 700 grams of cocaine, 9 kilograms of cannabis resin and herb and 17,000 euros in cash were seized during the searches. The investigators also discovered three fake IDs, which led to further reports. All five suspects were reported in relation to the Narcotic Drugs Act and suspicion of membership in a criminal organization. The 36-year-old suspect also faces a charge of forgery after the forged documents were found.

The Vienna public prosecutor's office has decided to transfer the suspects to the prison. This is a further step in the authorities' efforts to curb drug trafficking in Vienna and the surrounding area. The drug problem remains an ongoing issue in Austria, including the annual Report on the drug situation in Austria heard.

Drug situation in Austria

The report is commissioned by the European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and the Ministry of Health and covers developments in illicit drugs and the associated risks. In particular, the drug report for 2024, which covers the epidemiological situation in 2023, highlights the political and legal framework as well as the measures to reduce demand.

In addition, important topics such as drug markets, drug crimes and the impact of drugs on the justice system are covered. A current publication strengthens the social dialogue about these profound problems. Preventive measures and education about the dangers of illegal drugs are also very important in view of operations like the one in Vienna.

These recent events highlight the ongoing challenges facing police and the health system as they attempt to curb drug use and its associated societal consequences. According to a report by ORF Vienna The drug situation in Vienna should not be underestimated and requires continuous attention and measures.