A new Europol report, presented in Brussels, maps the profiles of the 731 most threatening criminal networks operating in the European Union, by the European Commission, Europol, and the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Comprising a total of more than 400,000 members from 118 nationalities, these networks are able to evolve and adapt, capitalizing on the possibilities of the digital age as well as systemic weaknesses.

SEE ALSO: Ten criminal networks in Cyprus among the most dangerous in the EU

Among their main areas of activity are drug trafficking, online fraud, human trafficking, and money laundering—with 85% of these groups using legitimate business structures.

“Where do they invest most often? In cash-intensive environments, such as the hospitality sector; they invest in logistics and real estate. All criminal activity is expanding online and is being accelerated by artificial intelligence and technology.”
Jürgen Ebner – Deputy Executive Director of Europol

Of the 821 networks identified in 2024, 198 remain on the current list, demonstrating the fluid nature of organized crime. Their main characteristics are a hierarchical structure, cross-border operations, and a very strong financial base.

“They change, merge, and constantly reinvent themselves, which, on the one hand, makes it more difficult to monitor them, but, on the other hand, also makes it harder to dismantle them.” ”
Magnus Brunne – European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration

Crime in Cyprus

Of the 59 criminal networks identified as active in Cyprus, 10 were assessed as the most threatening.

“Eight of these networks are primarily involved in drug trafficking, while the rest are linked to extortion, illegal gambling, money laundering, and other serious criminal activities.
Themistos Arnaoutis – Chief of Police

The report highlights the use of encrypted communications and techniques that make it difficult to identify perpetrators and underscores the need for investment in innovation and closer cooperation among law enforcement authorities, governments, and the private sector.

Watch the report by Rafaella Stavrinou: