Denmark's interagency group responsible for monitoring the distribution of precursor chemicals reported no infractions in 1997. Danish police continue their counternarcotics efforts. Because of public outcry over the release of arrested drug dealers in 1996, many of whom were foreigners, Danish law was amended to make it easier to place drug dealers behind bars and to expel foreign dealers who illegally reside in Denmark. Danish authorities view narcotics-related money laundering as a manageable problem in spite of Denmark's role as a major financial center. Banking procedures are transparent and are subject to government review to minimize the likelihood of illegal use of the banking system.
Danish law permits forfeiture and seizure in drug-related criminal cases.
Authorities strongly uphold existing asset seizure and forfeiture laws and cooperate with foreign authorities in such cases. Statistics on asset seizure are not available and, in any event, are not regarded as significant by the Danish government. Denmark promotes international cooperation on chemical precursors. Law Enforcement Efforts . Danish officials have already seized higher quantities of cocaine and amphetamines in 1997 than in 1996, reflecting an increasingly effective narcotics control effort.