Major Cocaine Bust in Canary Islands

In a significant blow to international drug trafficking, nearly 50 individuals have been arrested and 3.8 tonnes of cocaine seized in a large-scale operation in Spain’s Canary Islands. The operation, led by Spanish authorities with support from Europol, dismantled the largest criminal network in the region.

The coordinated effort involved law enforcement agencies from Spain, Portugal, Colombia, the UK, and the USA. The criminal network allegedly used a sophisticated maritime infrastructure, including 11 speedboats, to transport cocaine from South America to Europe. In addition to the arrests, authorities conducted 29 house searches and seized 69 vehicles, including boats, alongside cash and properties.

Europol played a pivotal role by providing analytical and financial support throughout the investigation. A Europol specialist was deployed to Spain to assist on the action day, ensuring the success of the operation. This collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating organized crime.