Albanian prosecutors have identified businessman Dritan Gjika as one of the central figures in a major international drug trafficking and money laundering investigation, following a large-scale operation led by Albania’s Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK).

According to investigative findings, Gjika is suspected of playing a leading role in a structured criminal organization allegedly involved in trafficking cocaine from Latin America to Europe through a network operating primarily out of Ecuador.

Authorities say Gjika first arrived in Ecuador in 2009 on a temporary visa and gradually became a prominent figure in investigations linked to international narcotics trafficking. Prosecutors allege that the criminal network established connections with drug suppliers and logistics operators across several countries, facilitating the movement of cocaine shipments to European destinations, including the Netherlands, Belgium and Spain.

Investigators believe the organization operated through a multi-layered structure that coordinated trafficking routes, transportation logistics and distribution networks, while relying on a broad network of associates in both Latin America and Europe.

In addition to drug trafficking allegations, authorities suspect that millions of dollars generated from criminal activities were laundered through legitimate business operations. According to investigative reports, more than $43 million in suspected illicit proceeds may have been funneled through various commercial entities and investments.

The case forms part of a wider investigation into an international criminal network accused of trafficking large quantities of cocaine into Europe and concealing profits through sophisticated money laundering schemes.

Reports indicate that Gjika was arrested in Abu Dhabi in 2025. His name remains central to ongoing international investigations coordinated between SPAK and foreign law enforcement agencies as authorities continue efforts to dismantle the broader criminal network and trace its financial operations.

The investigation remains active, and prosecutors continue to work with international partners to gather evidence and pursue additional suspects connected to the case.