French authorities, supported by Europol and the Swiss Federal Police (Fedpol), have dismantled a criminal network trafficking counterfeit and converted firearms from Türkiye into the European Union. During coordinated action days between 8 and 11 June 2026, investigators arrested ten suspects and raided seven luxury properties in southern France.

The investigation was carried out by the French National Gendarmerie (Gendarmerie Nationale / Section de Recherche de Fréjus). It targeted a criminal network involved in firearms trafficking and money laundering. Investigators believe the group supplied criminal actors across several European countries through an established trafficking route linking Türkiye to the EU.

The case began in June 2025 after the seizure of two counterfeit pistols hidden inside a luxury car travelling from Switzerland to France. Investigators quickly uncovered a well-structured criminal network composed predominantly of Turkish nationals and led by a Turkish-German suspect.

Results from the action days:

• 7 house searches in Fréjus, Cannes, Nice, and Marseille
• 10 arrests
• Over EUR 1.2 million in assets seized, including converted and counterfeit firearms, three luxury vehicles, luxury watches, jewellery, high-end clothing, large amounts of cash, fake documents, small quantities of drugs, phones, computers, and approximately EUR 30 000 in cash.

Counterfeit firearms emerge as a growing threat

Investigators found that the network had established an international supply chain specialising in the trafficking of counterfeit and converted firearms from Türkiye into the European Union.

Unlike traditional illicit firearms markets, counterfeit weapons are increasingly being manufactured with industrial-grade precision, producing replicas that closely resemble genuine firearms in appearance, durability, and performance. Their availability and reliability make them an attractive option for criminal networks seeking access to lethal weapons while avoiding traditional firearm procurement channels.

Authorities believe the network generated significant profits from supplying these weapons to criminal actors across Europe. Members of the group were found living in luxury villas and apartments in southern France and using high-end vehicles while conducting their criminal activities.

The alleged leader of the network was arrested in Slovakia and extradited to Türkiye in early 2026. Despite his incarceration, investigators suspect he continued to direct the network's activities through associates operating across Europe.

Europol's support

Europol facilitated information exchange and operational coordination throughout the investigation and provided analytical support to the case.

During the action days, Europol deployed three experts to France to support national authorities with real-time operational coordination and analysis, as well as specialised capacities, helping investigators develop additional leads and advance ongoing enquiries.