Police Dismantle Major Drug Trafficking Network in Canary Islands, Seizing 7.5 Tons of Hashish

Police have dismantled a major drug trafficking network in the Canary Islands, marking a significant victory in the fight against organized crime. The eight-month operation, led by the National Police and the Civil Guard, resulted in 25 arrests and the seizure of over 7,500 kilograms of hashish.

The investigation began as two separate inquiries, but authorities eventually realized they were tracking the same targets. This led to an unprecedented collaboration between the two security forces. Investigators discovered that the group was part of a sophisticated international operation, using the Canary Islands as a hub to store and redistribute drugs from North Africa to the European market, with further links to South America.

The gang was highly organized, using advanced counter-surveillance techniques and their own maritime fleet to avoid detection. The operation reached a turning point on May 11 in Sardina del Norte, Gran Canaria, when police intercepted a boat carrying 3,000 kilograms of drugs and arrested nine people. Subsequent raids in Gran Canaria and Malaga uncovered 250,000 euros in cash, firearms, ammunition, and documents that are currently being analyzed for further leads.

So far, 16 of the 25 suspects have been held in custody on charges of drug trafficking and belonging to a criminal organization. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities expect to make more arrests as they continue to track other suspects. This operation has dealt a major financial blow to the criminal network and provided police with valuable insight into how these groups manage their supply chains and rotate their assets.