Dubai Police have arrested the leader of a transnational criminal syndicate as part of a multinational operation targeting organised crime networks operating across Europe and the Balkans.
Marko Dordevic, identified as the head of the “Vraçarci” clan, also known as the Witchcrafters, was detained in Dubai following coordination between the UAE Ministry of Interior, Europol, the Serbian Ministry of Interior and the Spanish National Police.
The arrest formed part of Operation “Haris,” which aimed to dismantle criminal organisations involved in violent conflicts between the Kavac and Skaljari gangs in the Balkan region.
Marko Dordevic detained in Dubai as part of Europol-led operation against Balkan gangs
Since 2014, these rivalries have resulted in murders, arson attacks and bombings across several countries, leaving approximately 60 victims, according to authorities.
Dubai Police confirmed that Dordevic’s arrest was executed in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and Dubai Public Prosecution, based on a Red Notice issued by INTERPOL and in compliance with UAE legal procedures.
Serbian investigations into a crime committed on October 16, 2025 in Belgrade identified Dordevic as the leader of the Vraçarci faction affiliated with the Kavac clan.
Coordination between authorities enabled them to trace his presence to Dubai, triggering an international cooperation process that resulted in his arrest.
As part of Operation “Haris,” Serbian authorities arrested 10 suspects and executed 22 raids in multiple regions, seizing encrypted devices, vehicles, watches and approximately €300,000 in cash.
Spanish authorities detained two suspects during operations in Valencia and Barcelona.
Operation Haris: UAE authorities arrest witchcrafters gang leader in coordination with Europol
Dubai Police’s apprehension of Dordevic, carried out in coordination with Europol, Eurojust and Serbian authorities, completed a component of the international investigation and ensured the availability of evidence for judicial proceedings.
European, Serbian and Spanish security reports commended Dubai Police for their role in intelligence sharing and investigative support, noting the force’s technical capabilities, response time and adherence to international policing standards.
The operation reinforces the UAE’s position as a partner in countering organised crime, money laundering and terrorism financing, the reports stated.
Security cooperation data with Spain indicates the execution of 26 intelligence exchanges between both sides, contributing to the tracking of international criminal networks and the arrest of 29 wanted individuals, in addition to four extradition operations.
These results reflect the security partnership between Dubai Police and Spanish authorities.
The Dubai Police General Command stated that the outcome of Operation “Haris” demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to strengthening security, upholding the rule of law and supporting international partners in disrupting cross-border criminal organisations.
The statement added that this aligns with the country’s vision of promoting stability and peace worldwide.
Authorities explained that the operation followed intelligence linked to international investigations into conflicts between criminal gangs in the Balkan region.
Dubai Police, operating under the supervision of the UAE Ministry of Interior, coordinated with international partners throughout the investigation and arrest process.
