Another major discovery linked to drug trafficking has been made by the Guardia di Finanza and Customs at the port of Genoa, although in this case the haul did not involve finished narcotics but so-called precursors, substances used to manufacture illegal drugs. On 27 November 2025 the authorities announced the seizure of 700 kilograms of potassium permanganate, used in the production of cocaine and heroin. It was found in a container unloaded in the port, although not in pure form. The potassium permanganate was contained within ten tonnes of a chemical mixture known as ccp 108, in which it accounted for seven per cent.
The container had originated from the South African port of Durban and was destined for an Italian importer that does not hold the prior authorisation from the Ministry of Health required to market chemical precursors. It is not yet clear whether the company was aware of the presence of potassium permanganate. A detailed inspection of the cargo was carried out after initial doubts arose over the legitimacy of the commercial operation. The Customs Agency’s chemical laboratory, consulted for technical and scientific support, confirmed that the potassium permanganate in the mixture could be easily extracted through simple procedures, making it suitable for illicit use.
Potassium permanganate is a key reagent in the conversion of coca paste into cocaine and in several phases of heroin production. For this reason it is classified as a controlled precursor and must be tracked by the competent authorities. The lack of ministerial authorisation led to the immediate seizure of the entire container. A crucial role in the operation was played by the Customs Agency’s chemical laboratory, which recently inaugurated its new premises in Via Rubattino in Genoa.
Customs chemical laboratories, operating since 1886 and accredited by Accredia, conduct analyses on narcotics, import–export goods, petroleum and alcoholic products, as well as safety checks on widely used consumer items such as toys. The technical and scientific expertise they provide to operational units is a central element in managing controls on sensitive goods, as demonstrated by the seizure at the port of Genoa.
