Rome and Tarquinia Finance Police Bust Synthetic Drug Ring, Seize ‘Pink Cocaine’ Worth 1.4 Million Euros
Rome, April 3, 2026 – The Rome Provincial Finance Police have successfully dismantled a sophisticated network involved in the storage and dealing of synthetic drugs, operating across the capital and the Tivoli area. The operation, spearheaded by the 6th Metropolitan Operational Unit of Rome, in collaboration with officers from the Tarquinia Company, led to significant seizures and arrests.
The investigation commenced with an intervention at a residence in the Magliana area, identified as a hub for retail drug sales. A search of the premises uncovered a substantial cache of pre-dosed substances, including 200 ecstasy pills, ketamine, MDMA, and cocaine, along with all the necessary packaging materials. The individual responsible was arrested in flagrante delicto and subsequently placed under house arrest following a fast-track trial.
Sophisticated Hideout Discovered in Tivoli
Further investigative developments, directed by the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Rome, shifted the focus to a rural building in the Tivoli – Castel Madama area. Here, a second individual was apprehended, who was also found to be a fugitive from a previous restrictive measure.
During the inspection of the farmhouse, the keen sense of smell of the canine unit’s dog, “Holden,” from the P.I. Group of Rome, proved instrumental. Holden sniffed out a sophisticated drug depot concealed within a cavity in a tuff brick wall. This hidden compartment was protected by an automated wall-opening system, activated only by triggering two remote electrical contacts, cleverly disguised.
3.5 kg of ‘Pink Cocaine’ Seized
Inside the secret hideout, approximately 3.5 kilograms of “Tusi,” commonly known as “pink cocaine,” were discovered. This substance, despite its misleading name, is not actual cocaine but a dangerous synthetic mixture of low-cost substances like Ketamine and MDMA, artificially colored for “criminal marketing” purposes. Despite its high toxicity and danger, “pink cocaine” is sold on the market at extremely high prices, reaching up to 400 euros per gram, fueling a lucrative illegal business.
The seized quantity, if it had reached the drug markets, would have yielded an estimated profit of around 1.4 million euros.
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
The individual found at the rural building was transferred to the Rome – Rebibbia prison, at the disposal of the Tivoli Judicial Authority, which validated the arrest. The suspect now faces charges of evasion and drug trafficking.
The criminal proceedings are currently in the preliminary investigation phase, and the principle of presumption of innocence applies to the suspects until a final judgment is rendered.
Ongoing Efforts Against Drug Trafficking
This operation underscores the continuous efforts of the Guardia di Finanza to combat drug trafficking and protect public health. The dismantling of this network represents a significant blow to the illicit drug trade in the Lazio region, particularly in Rome and its surrounding areas.
The authorities emphasize the importance of such operations in curbing the availability of dangerous synthetic drugs like “pink cocaine,” which pose serious health risks to users due to their unknown composition and high toxicity.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the legal proceedings continue. The collaboration between different units of the Finance Police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office highlights a comprehensive approach to tackling organized crime and drug-related offenses.
This successful seizure and the subsequent arrests are a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in their mission to ensure public safety and combat illegal activities within the national territory.
