Italian carabinieri seized a record quantity of 200 kilos of cocaine in an apartment in the Tor Vergata area of Rome, as part of a major anti-drug operation, which led to the arrest of a 22-year-old man of Albanian origin.

The amount of cocaine, worth approximately 16 million euros, was divided into 191 parcels and hidden in various parts of the house.

During the search, officers also found 30,000 euros in cash and a firearm, which had been reported stolen. According to authorities, the apartment operated as a drug storage and trafficking center, equipped with sophisticated means for their storage and distribution.

The 22-year-old was arrested outside his home after his suspicious behavior caught the attention of a carabinieri patrol. During the check, he was found to be carrying a large amount of cash, despite being registered as unemployed, which led to a further search of his home.

Investigators also found that he had modified his car, creating a hideout that opened with a keypad and a special mechanism connected to the ignition — a technique used to evade checks when transporting drugs.

During his first appearance in court, the perpetrator partially admitted his guilt, claiming that he was forced to participate due to his family's difficult financial situation.

"I found myself in a bad situation because my family is very poor and lives in desperate conditions," he reportedly told the court, according to the report. The Republic.

He added that at the time of his arrest he was preparing to return to Albania and that this is the first time he has been involved in criminal activity. Regarding the weapon, he claimed:
"It's not mine. I never bought it or used it."

The 22-year-old refused to reveal any information about the ring or the individuals behind the large quantity of drugs. The judge ordered his pretrial detention, while his lawyer said she will appeal, requesting a lighter sentence.