North Macedonia: ICITAP Support Drives Lowest Crime Levels, Dismantling 30 Criminal Organizations and Seizing 6.2 Tons of Narcotics

On June 30, ICITAP’s North Macedonia mission reported significant law enforcement and public security achievements announced by the Minister of Interior during a national press briefing, underscoring the country’s growing capacity to combat organized crime, narcotics trafficking, and other threats to public safety. According to the Minister, North Macedonia is experiencing its lowest crime levels in the past 20 years, driven by the dismantling of more than 30 organized criminal groups, the seizure of approximately 6.2 metric tons of illicit narcotics, a more than 300 percent increase in cocaine seizures, and the removal of over 550 illegal firearms from circulation. Authorities also reported reductions of more than 30 percent in property crime and more than 40 percent in robbery, contributing to improved public confidence and a safer environment for citizens, businesses, and international visitors. These accomplishments reflect the strengthening of North Macedonia’s law enforcement institutions through sustained investments in training, mentoring, technical assistance, and institutional capacity building, areas in which ICITAP has played a key supporting role. The Minister also highlighted the successful implementation of the “Safe City” initiative, which contributed to a 40 percent reduction in road fatalities during its first five months of operation, as well as the signing of a new agreement with Albania establishing joint border crossings that further enhance regional cooperation, border management, and information sharing throughout the Western Balkans. Additionally, the Ministry announced the reopening of a Secondary Police School, creating a pipeline for future law enforcement professionals and supporting long-term institutional sustainability. These developments advance United States national security interests by strengthening a key regional partner’s ability to disrupt transnational criminal organizations, interdict illicit trafficking networks, improve border security, and promote regional stability. By enhancing security and rule of law in the Western Balkans, ICITAP helps protect American citizens, economic interests, and broader security objectives abroad. In North Macedonia, ICITAP works with the support of and in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Skopje and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).