Dubai police arrest Marko Dordevic, leader of notorious Vracarci gang, in international operation

Dubai Police have dealt a major blow to one of Europe’s most dangerous criminal networks by arresting Marko Dordevic, the elusive leader of the Vracarci gang, also known as the Witchcrafters. Captured in Dubai through a meticulously coordinated international operation named Haris, Dordevic’s arrest underscores the UAE’s growing influence in global security and its determination to dismantle cross-border organized crime.

Dordevic had been residing in Dubai and was wanted internationally under a Red Notice issued through Interpol at the Serbian Ministry of Interior. His arrest was carried out in full coordination with the Ministry of Interior and the Dubai Public Prosecution, following all approved legal procedures. Dubai Police emphasized that this action forms part of their ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and terrorism.

The Vracarci clan, linked to the Kavac criminal group, has been involved in violent clashes with the skaljari clan in the Balkans since 2014. These conflicts have resulted in around sixty deaths across several countries, involving murders, arson attacks, and explosions. Dordevic was identified as the mastermind behind a murder committed on October 16, 2025, in central Belgrade, making him a top international target. His arrest marks a critical step toward dismantling the gang’s leadership and disrupting its criminal operations.


Operation Haris was launched as a symbol of high-level coordination between international law enforcement agencies. In Serbia, authorities conducted 22 raids in Belgrade and sabac, arresting ten gang members and seizing encrypted phones, luxury vehicles, high-end watches, and nearly 300,000 euros in cash. In Spain, two suspects were arrested in Valencia and Barcelona with the support of the Spanish National Police. In the UAE, the arrest of Dordevic was executed with coordination from Europol, Eurojust, and Serbian authorities. Dubai Police also prepared all necessary evidence to support international judicial cooperation procedures.

The role of Dubai Police in the operation was widely praised by Europol, Serbian, and Spanish authorities. Their contribution included intelligence sharing, investigative support, and the execution of arrest procedures according to the highest professional standards. Participating agencies highlighted Dubai Police’s operational efficiency and technical readiness, reflecting the UAE’s position as a key partner in global efforts to combat organized crime and terrorism.

The success of Operation Haris also illustrates the UAE’s commitment to strengthening global security, combating money laundering, and preventing terrorism financing. Dubai Police noted that the operation supports international efforts to dismantle cross-border criminal networks and aligns with the country’s vision of promoting security, stability, and the rule of law both regionally and globally. Longstanding cooperation with Spanish authorities has proved particularly effective, with coordinated information exchanges in 26 cases helping track cross-border criminal activity. These efforts have led to 29 arrests of suspects wanted internationally by Spain and four successful handover operations, demonstrating the value of sustained international collaboration.

The arrest of Marko Dordevic and the broader success of Operation Haris mark a decisive moment in the fight against cross-border organized crime. By combining intelligence, careful planning, and coordinated action, Dubai Police and their international partners have struck a significant blow against a dangerous criminal network, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a pivotal player in maintaining global security.