Almost five tons of cocaine were seized in the port of Antwerp

Belgian authorities say they have seized nearly five tonnes of cocaine hidden in shipping containers in the port of Antwerp as part of a cross-border investigation into a drug-trafficking ring.

Prosecutors said eight people were detained following raids in Belgium and the Netherlands earlier this month.

185.000 euros in cash were also confiscated, as well as weapons, jewelry, luxury bags, and watches.

The investigation focused on a criminal organization involved in cocaine trafficking to Belgium from South America, Central America and Canada, according to a statement from the prosecution.

The port of Antwerp is one of the main gateways for drugs smuggled from South America to the European market.

As reported by France Press, in that port last year the seizure of cocaine reached a record 116 tons.