A high-ranking prosecutor in Hanover is under fire amid explosive allegations that he leaked sensitive law enforcement information to one of Germany’s largest cocaine-smuggling networks. The man, identified by local media as “Yashar G,” is accused of betraying his position for years—possibly tipping off suspects and derailing investigations in exchange for hefty bribes.
According to prominent defense lawyer Raban Funk, whispers about G’s misconduct began circulating as early as 2020. Funk told German broadcaster NDR that he personally informed G’s superiors after an anonymous tip landed on his desk. Still, nothing was done.
“It was an open secret,” Funk said. “Criminals from different circles all talked about a prosecutor feeding them inside info.”
Despite mounting suspicion, G continued to work on high-profile drug cases—including one targeting the very smugglers he was allegedly aiding. That trial unraveled in December 2024 when Germany’s Federal Court of Justice overturned the conviction of a defendant represented by Funk. The case had resulted in a 12-year sentence.
Things came to a head in late 2022 when police searched G’s home and office. They reportedly uncovered a trove of incriminating material—photos of confidential files, operational plans, and evidence suggesting regular payments from the criminal network. Investigators believe G received €5,000 monthly, plus bonuses for particularly valuable intelligence.
Shockingly, even after that raid, G was allowed to continue prosecuting cases linked to the drug ring.
The full scale of the smuggling operation came to light in early 2021, when police in Hamburg seized a record-breaking 16 tonnes of cocaine—worth roughly €450 million—hidden in shipping containers. The drugs were traced back to Colombia, with connections stretching across Europe and the Middle East.
Authorities moved quickly to arrest 32 suspects, but only 20 were caught. The rest, including the alleged kingpin, vanished—some reportedly fleeing to Dubai, Albania, and Morocco. Investigators now suspect G may have tipped them off ahead of the raid.
G, who is of Iranian descent, was finally arrested in October 2024. He faces 14 charges, including bribery, violating official secrecy, and obstructing justice. His trial begins April 23 under tight security.
The case has rocked Germany’s judicial system and raised serious questions about internal oversight. With ties allegedly reaching as far as the Hells Angels and even G’s own brother-in-law—a known drug dealer—the scandal is far from over.
