Seventeen Arrested in Major Drug Trafficking Operation
The Civil Guard and the National Police have apprehended the leader of one of the most active drug trafficking networks in Spain during a joint operation that resulted in a total of 17 arrests. In addition, 23 searches were conducted, leading to the seizure of 14 properties, 38 vehicles, and 24 vessels. The ringleader of the criminal group, known as “El Buque,” is considered a high-value target for European law enforcement agencies.
The Arrest of “El Buque” brings to a close an investigation lasting over a year, which has dismantled the entire structure of the criminal organisation, resulting in the arrest of all its members for drug trafficking and belonging to a criminal organisation.
Specialised Network
The dismantled network specialised in smuggling large quantities of cocaine into Spain via boats. This group maintained strong international links, particularly in the southern region of Gran Canaria, using sophisticated methods to conceal the drugs, with shipments often amounting to several tonnes in each operation.
Seizures and Arrests
As a result of this operation, around 100 kg of cocaine and another 100 kg of hashish were seized following two pursuits by police forces at sea. Additionally, 24 vessels were confiscated.
Thus far, there have been 17 arrests in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, La Gomera, and Fuerteventura, along with 23 searches carried out across various judicial districts in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and La Gomera.
Financial Assets and Equipment Seized
Large sums of money and 14 properties have been placed under the control of the National Court, alongside a total of 38 vehicles that have been confiscated. Numerous computer and documentary materials have also been seized for further analysis.
Investigative Cooperation
The investigation was led by the Central Investigative Court number six, with support from the Special Anti-Drug Prosecutor’s Office of the National Court. The operation also received assistance from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), EUROPOL, the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre – Narcotics (MAOC-N), and the Intelligence Centre against Terrorism and Organised Crime (CITCO).
All these institutions have been crucial in tracking the transnational movements of the organisation and intercepting their communications during critical phases of the investigation.
Local police agents collaborated on the searches conducted in the capital of Gran Canaria.
