National Police agents, in a joint operation with the Civil Guard, have arrested the leader of one of the most active drug trafficking networks in Spain in the Canary Islands. The operation resulted in the arrest of 17 individuals, the execution of 23 searches and seizures, and the confiscation of 14 properties, 38 vehicles, and 24 vessels. The main suspect, known by the alias “El Buque”, was a top priority for European law enforcement agencies and is considered one of the largest drug traffickers in the Canary archipelago. Leader of one of Spain’s most active drug trafficking networks arrested in the Canary Islands
The arrest of “El Buque” marks the culmination of an investigation lasting over a year, which has completely dismantled the criminal structure, leading to the apprehension of all its members for drug trafficking and membership in a criminal organisation.
A Highly Sophisticated Network
The organisation specialised in smuggling large quantities of cocaine into Spanish territory using boats, employing sophisticated methods to conceal the drugs. In each operation, the shipments could reach several tons.
As a result of the investigations, nearly 100 kilograms of cocaine and another 100 kilograms of hashish were seized during two high-seas pursuits. Additionally, 24 vessels were confiscated, six of which were directly linked to drug trafficking operations.
So far, 17 arrests have been made in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, La Gomera, and Fuerteventura, alongside 23 searches conducted at various properties and vessels. Among the seized assets are 14 real estate properties, 38 high-end vehicles, and substantial amounts of cash, which have been placed under the jurisdiction of the National High Court. Numerous computer and documentary materials have also been confiscated and are currently under analysis.
International Cooperation
The operation has been led by the Central Investigation Court No. 6 of the National High Court and the Special Anti-Drug Prosecutor’s Office, with support from top-tier international agencies, including the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Judicial Police of Portugal, EUROPOL, and the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre – Narcotics (MAOC-N), as well as the Intelligence Centre against Terrorism and Organised Crime (CITCO).
The involvement of these agencies has been crucial for tracking the transnational movements of the organisation and intercepting critical communications that allowed for the anticipation of high-risk operations.
The operation remains ongoing, with further arrests not ruled out. Leader of one of Spain’s most active drug trafficking networks arrested in the Canary Islands
