Belgian National Arrested at Vienna Airport with Over 3 Kilograms of Cannabis Resin

Thu 9th Oct, 2025

Authorities at Vienna International Airport have intercepted a significant quantity of illegal narcotics during a routine customs inspection. On Tuesday, a 39-year-old Belgian citizen was apprehended after his luggage was found to contain approximately 3.3 kilograms of cannabis resin, commonly known as hashish.

According to official reports, the narcotic substance was concealed within the man's checked baggage, which was scheduled to be transported from Bangkok, Thailand, via Vienna, Austria, to Barcelona, Spain. The suspect was detained at the departure gate in Vienna prior to boarding his connecting flight to Barcelona.

Customs officials, in collaboration with law enforcement, conducted an in-depth inspection of the suspect's suitcase after identifying irregularities during routine screening procedures. Further examination revealed the presence of several packages containing the illegal substance, which were subsequently confiscated as evidence.

The Belgian national was immediately taken into custody at the airport. During the initial interrogation by authorities, the individual reportedly declined to provide a confession or cooperate with the ongoing investigation. Following his arrest, he was transferred to the Korneuburg Correctional Facility, where he awaits legal proceedings related to the attempted smuggling of a controlled substance.

Officials have emphasized the importance of international cooperation in curbing drug trafficking through major transit hubs. Vienna International Airport, as a critical junction for international travel, regularly implements stringent security protocols to intercept illicit substances and prevent their distribution within Europe.

The incident highlights the persistent challenge faced by customs and law enforcement agencies in identifying and apprehending individuals attempting to use commercial air travel routes for the smuggling of drugs. The authorities reiterated their commitment to enhanced security screening and intelligence-sharing with partner agencies across Europe and beyond.

Investigators are currently working to determine the origin and intended recipients of the confiscated cannabis resin. The discovery has prompted further inquiries into potential networks involved in the drug's production and distribution, both within the European Union and internationally.

No additional statements have been released regarding the suspect's connections or the broader context of the attempted smuggling operation. The case remains under active investigation, with officials expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.

This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts by Austrian authorities to combat illegal drug trafficking and maintain the integrity of the nation's borders. Travelers are reminded of the severe legal consequences associated with the illegal import or export of controlled substances through Austrian territory.


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