Around 600 kilograms of cannabis have been seized at Vienna Airport following a series of targeted inspections, authorities have confirmed.

The drugs, which are believed to have originated in Thailand, were intended for further distribution across Europe. Twenty-one suspects, aged between 20 and 54, have been arrested and taken into custody at Korneuburg Prison.

The operation, which began in July, was carried out by the Schwechat City Police, the Federal Criminal Police Office, and customs authorities, with sniffer dogs also deployed during the searches.

Police investigations revealed that the smugglers were recruited via online forums, where they were offered substantial rewards for their involvement, with organisers reportedly promising a “guaranteed success.” Investigations into the organisers are ongoing.

Authorities suggest that the recent surge in drug seizures, observed at several European airports, is linked to the legalisation of cannabis cultivation in Thailand. The oversupply has caused a significant drop in prices, creating an opportunity for smugglers to profit from the trade of the “soft” drug.