Swiss police say an investigation is underway after workers at a Nespresso factory in western Switzerland found 500 kilograms (over 1,100 pounds) of cocaine, with a street value of US$50 million, as they unloaded coffee beans that had arrived by train.
Regional police in Fribourg said late Thursday they were alerted Monday by the company to the discovery at the facility in the town of Romont and immediately set up a "broad security perimeter" around it with a large deployment of officers. Customs and border control agents were called in.
"The cocaine seized has an 80% degree of purity and its market value is estimated at more than 50 million francs," the police said, adding that the stash appeared "destined for the European market." Switzerland is not an EU member but is part of the Schengen zone that allows for visa-free travel among many European countries.