A Dutch drug trafficker, who was one of Europe’s most wanted criminals and had reportedly faked his own death, has been murdered in Mexico, an official confirmed on Friday.
Marco Ebben Shot Dead Near Mexico City
Marco Ebben, 32, was fatally shot on Thursday in Atizapan de Zaragoza, a municipality located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Mexico City. His identity was confirmed by forensic experts, an official at the state prosecutor’s office told AFP. The official, who requested anonymity, stated that they were not authorized to disclose details about the case.
Ebben was listed as one of Europe’s “most wanted fugitives” by Europol. He was accused of smuggling drugs from Brazil to the Netherlands, making him a high-priority target for European law enforcement agencies.
Reports had previously suggested that Ebben had faked his own death in an attempt to evade authorities. However, his criminal past caught up with him in Mexico, where he met a violent end.
Investigation Underway
Mexican authorities have launched an investigation into Ebben’s murder. Given his high-profile criminal background, officials are exploring potential connections to drug cartels or rival criminal groups.
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Law enforcement agencies across Europe and Latin America are closely monitoring the case. Europol and other international agencies are expected to assist in the investigation, given Ebben’s history of organized crime.
The murder of a high-profile European fugitive in Mexico highlights the country’s ongoing challenges with organized crime. Authorities are working to determine whether Ebben’s presence in Mexico was linked to any local criminal organizations.
As investigations unfold, officials will seek to uncover the motive behind Ebben’s killing and whether it was connected to his drug smuggling operations. Europol and Mexican law enforcement continue to coordinate efforts in addressing transnational crime.
