Nine Sentenced in Tenerife for 850kg Cocaine Trafficking Ring

The Provincial Court of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has sentenced nine people for their roles in a major drug trafficking ring. The verdict follows a plea deal between the Anti-Drug Prosecutor's Office and the defense, bringing an end to a case involving the smuggling and distribution of nearly 850 kilograms of cocaine on the island. Investigators described the group as a highly organized and specialized operation.

The ruling is now final, as all parties have agreed not to appeal. The defendants received prison sentences ranging from six years and five months to seven years and six months. The court also imposed heavy fines: 60 million euros for the ringleaders and logistics managers, and 8.5 million euros for the other members.

The investigation revealed a complex organization with clearly defined roles. Two leaders managed operations and coordinated with South American suppliers, while others handled the storage and transport of the drugs. Police dismantled the network after tracking their activities, which included using dedicated stash houses and escort vehicles to move shipments.

Authorities seized a significant amount of drugs, including 844.56 kilograms found in a warehouse and another 100 kilograms intercepted during a failed sale. Forensic tests confirmed the cocaine was highly pure, with most samples exceeding 82%.

This case highlights how criminal groups continue to target the Canary Islands, using professional tactics to smuggle drugs through the region. The successful prosecution serves as a major blow to the group and demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between prosecutors and law enforcement in stopping large-scale drug trafficking.