Law enforcement authorities in Albania executed a major international drug interdiction operation codenamed “Anchor” at the Port of Durrës, resulting in the seizure of approximately 80 kilograms of high-THC cannabis originating from Canada, according to official police reports from August 2026.
Operation Anchor Seizes 80 Kilograms of Cannabis at Durrës Port
During the operation at the Port of Durrës, police intercepted 127 individual packages containing cannabis with a high tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, commonly referred to as “Gelato” cannabis. According to the State Police, the total market value of the seized narcotics is estimated at approximately €1 million.
Law enforcement intelligence indicates that the shipment originated in Ontario, Canada. Smugglers concealed the narcotics inside a specially modified compartment built into a vehicle that had been ordered from Canada. After arriving via maritime freight at the Albanian port, the distribution network intended to move the illicit substances throughout Albania and into Kosovo.
Arrests Made and Ongoing International Manhunts
The Durrës Police Department detained three citizens from Kosovo in connection with the smuggling operation. The suspects are identified as 32-year-old Taulant Duraku, 26-year-old Luan Gashi, and 40-year-old Besfort Jaka.
Authorities are actively pursuing two additional suspects linked to the same trafficking ring. One wanted individual resides in Kukës, Albania, while the second suspect operates out of Ontario, Canada.
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