Czech anti-drug investigators have charged seven foreign nationals and one Czech citizen over a scheme that allegedly moved large quantities of cocaine and other drugs from Germany into the Czech Republic.

Authorities say the group transported more than 30 kilograms of cocaine, along with other substances, before arrests began earlier this year.

The investigation, carried out with German police, led to the seizure of 4.8 kilograms of cocaine during an operation code-named “Nightmare.”

Officers also confiscated nearly six kilograms of marijuana, methamphetamine, hashish, ketamine, MDMA mixtures, LSD and hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Cash exceeding half a million Czech crowns, a vehicle, a hydraulic press used in drug preparation and a luxury watch valued at over 400,000 crowns were also taken.

According to investigators, the operation relied on a repeated travel pattern between Prague and Berlin. Couriers were driven to the German capital, where they temporarily rented apartments.

There they allegedly bought two to three kilograms of cocaine at a time, typically compressed into brick-sized packages, alongside cakes later used for concealment. Each cocaine batch reportedly cost about €25,000.

Back in Prague, the drugs were resold at higher prices. Forensic findings suggest that 100 grams of cocaine could sell for between 100,000 and 150,000 Czech crowns.

Smaller quantities were offered through Telegram channels, where other substances such as MDMA, LSD and methamphetamine were also advertised. Investigators say pricing and distribution decisions were directed by the group’s organizer.

Transport methods were designed to avoid detection. Cocaine was placed inside cakes and covered with whipped cream so the filling would not be visible. The desserts were boxed and carried by bus from Berlin to Prague’s Florenc district. On some trips, couriers also hid drugs beneath clothing in their luggage.

Police say the car used by organizers usually returned to the Czech Republic the same night. Initially another member drove, but after losing his licence the organizer reportedly took over. Once in Prague, drugs were stored either in a courier’s apartment or in a rented storage container.

Couriers were reportedly paid about 25,000 Czech crowns  for transporting a single concealed shipment. Several of them were under 20 years old and, according to investigators, had financial problems.

They were supervised by an associate of the alleged organizer, a former bartender who first sold marijuana before moving into cocaine distribution.

The group is believed to have operated from mid-2024 until February 2025, when initial arrests were made. The investigation later expanded to include two additional suspects accused of handling high-purity cocaine intended for further sale in Prague and nearby areas.

Five suspects remain in custody while three are being prosecuted at liberty. Some defendants could face prison sentences of up to 18 years if convicted.

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