DÜSSELDORF (Germany), Oct 24 (NNN-AGENCIES) — German police discovered that a top-selling dish, “Pizza No. 40,” at a Düsseldorf pizzeria came with an unexpected topping – cocaine.
Food inspectors tipped off authorities in March and narcotics investigators then put the restaurant under surveillance, noticing that ‘Pizza No. 40’ was a customer favourite.
The pizzeria was part of an organised crime ring in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most populous state.
In a series of raids across nine cities, 150 officers seized 1.6kg of cocaine, 400g of cannabis, €268,000, expensive watches, and weapons, including a handgun, an axe, and knives.
Three arrests were made.
“It was one of the most-sold pizzas,” Düsseldorf police Chief Inspector Michael Graf von Moltke said.
“A packet of cocaine was placed under each pie. That was new to us and surprising because the owner had never been accused of drug crimes.”
The restaurant’s slogan? “We deliver everything home to you.”
When police arrived, the 36-year-old Croatian owner allegedly threw a bag of drugs out of the window – right into the arms of waiting officers.
Despite being released after two days due to a clean record, the owner returned to business, leading investigators to his supply chain.
The trail pointed to a 22-year-old Russian-born mixed martial arts fighter, known for his violent and unscrupulous behaviour.
Police say he dealt cocaine and large amounts of cannabis, attacking and robbing rival dealers.
One victim was allegedly held hostage for two nights, during which a large quantity of hashish was stolen from his home.
In total, 15 suspects have been identified, including the pizzeria owner, who has been in custody since August. The restaurant is now closed. — NNN-AGENCIES
