Skopje, North Macedonia, 14–15 December 2025
The INCB Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme supported the delivery of a specialized course on Complex Transnational Investigations in Skopje, North Macedonia. The training was led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and aimed to strengthen national capacities to identify, investigate, and dismantle transnational criminal networks involved in the trafficking and diversion of dangerous substances.
The course brought together 15 law enforcement officers from North Macedonia, reflecting the multidisciplinary cooperation required to address complex, cross-border drug trafficking and organized crime cases. Participants represented investigative and enforcement units engaged in counter-narcotics and criminal intelligence work.
Training topics included drug manufacturing processes, safe handling considerations, diversion methods, investigative and auditing techniques, and international controlled deliveries. A scenario-based practical exercise enabled participants to apply these skills in simulated investigations, reinforcing their ability to detect diversion points and disrupt trafficking networks operating across jurisdictions.
As part of the programme, GRIDS Programme trainers delivered sessions on online investigation techniques, open-source intelligence (OSINT), and operational security (OPSEC) fundamentals. Participants were introduced to INCB intelligence tools, including IONICS and GRIDS Intelligence HD, as well as the Scanning Novel Opioids Online Platform (SNOOP), which monitors online vendors advertising fentanyl-related and other dangerous substances of concern.
Photo: GRIDS Project Associate Veronica Rodriguez leading the session on OSINT tools
This initiative directly supported national and regional efforts to combat transnational organized crime and the diversion of dangerous substances. By enhancing investigative capacity and fostering operational cooperation, the training reaffirmed the United States’ commitment, through DEA-led engagement and GRIDS support, to working with partner countries to address evolving drug trafficking threats in Southeast Europe and beyond.
The Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme and Project ION and OPIOIDS Project operate under the International Narcotics Control Board's unique Article 35 (1961) treaty mandate that supports Governments' capabilities to exchange information on trafficking, illicit manufacture, marketing and sales of NPS, synthetic opioids, fentanyls and related chemicals, by providing real-time communication, and capabilities to facilitate information exchange and intelligence development with the aim to interdict distribution of dangerous substances.
Click here to learn more about the GRIDS Programme
Click here to learn more about the OPIOIDS Project
Click here to learn more about the Project ION
