Cologne: Alleged drug dealer wants to exchange stolen license plates from the police for cell phones

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Police operation (symbol image)

Photo: Oliver Berg / dpa

In Cologne, a 20-year-old tried to persuade the police to engage in a crazy barter.

On Monday he wanted to exchange a number plate stolen from a patrol car for two cell phones confiscated at the police station, the Cologne police said.

He had previously lost the two smartphones while fleeing officials.

The unsuccessful barter brought the man a search of his home.

In addition to evidence of drug trafficking, the police also found a firearm.

A patrol team had previously noticed the man when he fled on an e-scooter when he saw the officers.

Both cell phones fell out of his pocket.

A little later, the suspect appeared at a police station and offered the missing police license plate in exchange.

Meanwhile, messages were coming in on the phones, which police said suggested drug trafficking.

For the suspect's father and brother, the attempt to prevent the search ended in police custody.

They are now being investigated for resistance or for threats and insults.

Apr/AFP