By DAYO ADESULU
Customers Ordered Drugs Discreetly by Requesting Item Number 40 on the Menu
German authorities have uncovered a sophisticated drug operation operating out of a pizzeria in Düsseldorf, where customers could discreetly order cocaine by simply requesting item number 40 on the menu. This unusual method of drug distribution drew the attention of food inspectors earlier this year.
Mysterious Popularity Sparks Investigation
The pizza, known as number 40, became a bestseller at the restaurant, raising suspicions among food inspectors in March. Criminal director Michael Graf von Moltke confirmed to reporters, “That was one of the best-selling pizzas.” Following the inspectors’ alert, the police’s drug squad initiated a thorough investigation into the establishment.
The Unexpected Twist in the Drug Operation
The popularity of pizza number 40 soon unveiled its hidden secret: it came with a side of cocaine. Von Moltke provided these details during a press conference in Düsseldorf on Monday, according to the German news agency dpa.
In a dramatic turn of events, when police raided the home of the 36-year-old pizzeria manager, he attempted to dispose of evidence by throwing a bag of drugs out the window. Unfortunately for him, the bag landed directly in the hands of waiting officers below.
Significant Drug Seizures and Arrests
The seizure included a substantial amount of narcotics—1.6 kilograms (3.5 pounds) of cocaine and 400 grams (14.1 ounces) of cannabis—along with €268,000 ($290,378) in cash. Despite a brief detention, the manager was released after a few days and surprisingly resumed business, even reintroducing the illicit side-order with pizza number 40.
This bold move allowed law enforcement to further investigate the operation’s supply chain. After weeks of surveillance, police orchestrated a large-scale operation involving around 150 officers.
Dismantling a Drug Network
Authorities successfully dismantled a significant drug network in western Germany, arresting three primary suspects, including a 22-year-old mastermind behind the operation. Additionally, raids were conducted on the homes and properties of another 12 individuals suspected of involvement.
During these raids, police uncovered two cannabis-growing operations—one in Mönchengladbach with 300 plants and another in Solingen with 60. The authorities also seized cutting weapons, stabbing instruments, and various valuables, including cash and luxury watches, as reported by dpa.
Conclusion and Ongoing Investigation
The pizzeria manager was eventually rearrested while attempting to flee the country and currently remains in custody. In accordance with German privacy laws, the identities of the suspects have not been disclosed, and authorities have remained tight-lipped about the exact price customers paid for the notorious “pizza number 40” with its special side order.
