Swedish customs officials are investigating multiple cases involving female drug couriers. These women used similar methods to transport large quantities of cocaine and heroin into Sweden. One woman now faces charges for aggravated drug smuggling.
Ingrid Lamberth from the customs criminal department described the pattern in a statement. Foreign female couriers attempt to smuggle heroin and cocaine using identical techniques. They travel on long-distance buses or trains to border crossings in southern Sweden's Skåne region.
The drugs are concealed in swallowable capsules. These capsules are bundled together and wrapped in socks placed inside their luggage.
Authorities arrested the currently charged woman in April. A drug detection dog identified her aboard a train from Denmark. Her baggage contained over 15 kilograms of heroin and 4.5 kilograms of cocaine.
Customs investigation revealed she made 27 additional trips to Sweden since 2022. Mobile chat records show she maintained constant contact with overseas persons directing her travels, according to Lamberth.
This case highlights an evolving trend in European drug trafficking. Criminal networks appear to be recruiting more female couriers, possibly believing they attract less suspicion at border controls.