Police raid German pizzeria serving pizza with side of cocaine, drugs found at manager's home

Police raided a pizzeria in western Germany, accusing the restaurant of offering cocaine to customers who ordered item number 40 from the menu.

Authorities received a tip-off about the operation in March from food inspectors, prompting drug squad officers to begin monitoring the establishment, according to criminal director Michael Graf von Moltke on Monday.

When police attempted to arrest the pizzeria manager at his apartment, the 36-year-old reportedly threw a bag of drugs out of the window, which "fell right into the arms of the police officers," Düsseldorf police reported.

Officers discovered 1.6kg (3.5lb) of cocaine, 400g (14.1oz) of cannabis, and €268,000 (£223,120) in cash in the apartment.

The manager was released by authorities a few days later and reopened the restaurant, continuing to sell both the pizza and drugs.

Investigators used this opportunity to trace the pizzeria's drug supply chain, which led to the dismantling of a drug ring in western Germany weeks later.

Approximately 150 officers raided two cannabis plantations, one in Mönchengladbach, west of Düsseldorf, where 300 plants were found, and another in Solingen, east of the city, where 60 plants were uncovered.

Raids on the homes and businesses of 12 suspects led to the arrest of three individuals, including a 22-year-old believed to be the leader of the drug operation.

Police also seized weapons, cash, and luxury watches during the raids.

The pizzeria manager was rearrested while attempting to flee the country and is now in custody.  
"The number 40 was one of the best-selling pizzas," said Mr. Moltke.

Authorities have not disclosed the identities of other suspects or the price of the pizza-cocaine combo.