LAUSANNE, Switzerland — On Wednesday, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced that authorities in Serbia have dismantled a criminal operation involved in the importation and distribution of performance-enhancing drugs within the nation.

According to WADA, a statement revealed that ten individuals associated with the organized crime group have been apprehended. In the process, authorities confiscated a staggering 3,000 kilograms (approximately 6,614 pounds) of prohibited substances valued at around 3 million euros (about $3.1 million). Alongside this, 100,000 euros (nearly $104,000) in cash, cryptocurrency estimated at 500,000 euros (around $522,000), several properties, and seven domains that facilitated online sales of these illicit drugs were seized. The operation also resulted in the confiscation of luxury vehicles and high-end watches.

This significant crackdown is part of WADA’s initiative aimed at enhancing anti-doping intelligence and investigative capabilities across Europe, which encompasses 48 participating countries. The investigation was collaboratively conducted by the Anti-Doping Agency of Serbia, the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs, and various other governmental entities.

Details regarding the specific charges faced by the ten detained individuals or additional information about the case have not been disclosed. Günter Younger, WADA’s director of intelligence and investigation, commented on the success of the operation, stating that it highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among anti-doping organizations, law enforcement, and government agencies working in unison.

WADA also noted that over the past year, more than 14,457 kilograms (approximately 31,872 pounds) of banned substances have been seized as part of this ongoing initiative.