Dutch police have launched a crackdown on individuals constructing secret compartments in vehicles, used by criminals to transport illegal goods like drugs, weapons, and money. Authorities estimate around one hundred such builders are operating across the Netherlands. Recent legislation, enacted in January, criminalizes both the creation and possession of these hidden spaces. Police have observed a significant increase in the discovery of these compartments – 135 in 2023, 150 in 2024, 170 so far in 2025, and already 90 in 2026. A recent raid in Zevenbergen uncovered a workshop specializing in these modifications, alongside over a ton of cocaine and nearly two tons of hashish. These compartments are becoming increasingly sophisticated, hidden in various locations throughout vehicles, including under seats and behind dashboards. The police believe the number of identified workshops represents only a fraction of those operating.