German police recently uncovered a surprising twist to a popular Düsseldorf pizzeria’s menu: its top-selling “Pizza No. 40” was allegedly served with a hidden topping of cocaine. According to The Guardian, the case began in March when food inspectors alerted authorities to suspicious activity. Narcotics investigators placed the restaurant under surveillance and discovered that “Pizza No. 40” was a frequent order among certain customers.
The pizzeria was revealed to be part of a larger organized crime network in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most densely populated state. In coordinated raids spanning nine cities, police seized 1.6 kilograms of cocaine, 400 grams of cannabis, €268,000 in cash, luxury watches and weapons including a handgun, an axe and knives. Three people were arrested in the operation.
Düsseldorf police Chief Inspector Michael Graf von Moltke noted that cocaine packets were concealed beneath the pizzas—an unusual method that took investigators by surprise, especially given that the pizzeria owner, a 36-year-old Croatian national had no prior criminal record. Upon police arrival, the owner reportedly attempted to dispose of a bag of drugs by tossing it out a window, only for it to land directly in the arms of officers stationed outside.
Although he was initially released due to a clean record, further investigation led authorities to his alleged supplier, a 22-year-old Russian-born mixed martial arts fighter notorious for his aggressive dealings. Police believe this man was involved in both cocaine and cannabis distribution and he reportedly used violent tactics to control the drug market including holding a rival hostage and robbing them of hashish.
So far, 15 individuals have been implicated in the case, including the pizzeria owner, who has remained in custody since August. The pizzeria has since been closed permanently.
