Norwegian Fruit Distributor Seizes 147 kg Cocaine Hidden in Bananas

Employees at a Norwegian fruit distributor discovered 147 kilograms of cocaine hidden in nine boxes of bananas, prompting customs officials to seize the shipment. The cocaine, with an estimated street value of $16.4 million, is the largest haul in Norway since 2023. Authorities believe the drugs were smuggled by sea from South America, transported through Sweden, and likely intended for pickup at the port of Antwerp rather than for the Norwegian market. The operation is thought to be the work of a major criminal network, given the scale and organization required. Officials noted that similar incidents of cocaine concealed in banana shipments have occurred globally, reflecting the adaptability and risk tolerance of criminal organizations. International cooperation with Europol and Belgian authorities contributed to the investigation.