Massive Operation JAD SEE 2024 Unites 31,109 Officers to Combat Organized Crime Across Southeast Europe
In a groundbreaking initiative, the EMPACT Joint Action Day South East Europe 2024 (JAD SEE 2024) has achieved extraordinary results, harnessing the strength of 31,109 officers from 26 countries. This monumental operation culminated in 796 arrests and the launch of 316 new investigations, alongside the seizure of 442 illegal weapons. Coordinated from Sarajevo, the operation illustrates the European Union’s robust commitment to dismantling serious criminal threats across the region.
Focusing on critical issues like human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and drug and firearms trafficking, JAD SEE 2024 deployed a comprehensive strategy that included extensive checks in both physical locations and the online realm, including the dark web. With specialized ‘cyber patrols’ consisting of law enforcement and prosecutors from various jurisdictions, the operation enhanced its effectiveness in tackling high-risk criminal networks.
In a testament to its scope, officers conducted a staggering 655,914 checks, covering 516,153 individuals, 152,284 vehicles, and 4,985 postal packages.
Cross-border collaboration played a pivotal role, with participation from nations across the Western Balkans, Moldova, Ukraine, and Türkiye. Europol’s experts and mobile offices provided crucial support, facilitating real-time data sharing and operational coordination.
The EU4FAST project further bolstered the operation by establishing coordination centers and fostering collaboration among EU Member States, INTERPOL, and other key organizations.
By uniting under the motto “Uniting Forces Against Organized Crime,” JAD SEE 2024 not only set a benchmark for intelligence-driven strategies but also marked a significant milestone for the EMPACT initiative, showcasing the power of collective action in the fight against international crime. This operation has redefined regional cooperation, emphasizing that together, nations can make significant strides towards a safer Europe.
