Criminal director Michael Graf von Moltke said on Monday that drug squad agents started monitoring the restaurant after authorities were alerted about the scheme by food inspectors in March.
The 36-year-old pizzeria manager allegedly tossed a bag of cocaine out of the window when police arrived at his flat to arrest him, and the bag “fell right into the arms of the police officers,” according to Düsseldorf police.
In the apartment, police discovered 400g (14.1oz) of cannabis, 1.6kg (3.5lb) of cocaine, and €268,000 (£223,120) in cash.
A few days later, the police released the restaurant manager, who reopened his establishment.
Weeks later, investigators busted a drug network in western Germany after taking advantage of the chance to investigate the drug supply chain to the pizzeria.
Two cannabis plantations were raided by about 150 cops; 300 plants were seized in Mönchengladbach, west of Düsseldorf, and 60 plants were located in Solingen, east of the city.
Three people, including a 22-year-old accused of being the leader of the drug operation, were arrested as a consequence of raids on the residences and places of business of 12 suspects.
During the raids, police also discovered costly watches, cash, and guns.
The pizza manager is still in detention after being detained again while attempting to flee the country.
