Spanish Court Issues Landmark Sentences to Curb Maritime Drug Trafficking Sabotage
The Spanish National Court has issued severe prison sentences to an international drug trafficking ring, marking a decisive legal shift against the tactic of sabotaging vessels to destroy evidence.
A July 17 ruling by the National Court’s Criminal Chamber marks a significant shift in how maritime drug trafficking is prosecuted. The court has taken a tougher stance against the common tactic of burning vessels to destroy evidence and avoid capture. By handing down severe sentences to an international drug ring, the court is working to end the sense of impunity that has long surrounded these sabotage attempts.
The criminal network was dismantled following an extensive investigation by the Civil Guard’s Organized Crime Teams (ECO), particularly the Canary Islands unit. Led by Ukrainian nationals Andrey K. and Vitali M., the group operated as a logistics provider, managing crews and shipping routes for drug producers across Africa, South America, and Europe. Active since 2018, the organization coordinated its operations using encrypted platforms like Sky ECC and a fleet of sailboats, including the Jessie, Magallanes, and Liberta.
Investigators uncovered deep transnational ties, including partnerships with French groups and organizations based on the Costa del Sol. The group’s methods were highlighted in several incidents, such as the interception of the Jessie near Tenerife and the sinking of the Magallanes off the Canary Islands. In the latter case, the crew successfully destroyed 1,500 kilos of drugs before police could board, which initially led to their release due to a lack of physical evidence.
The network was finally brought down in the central Mediterranean aboard the Liberta. During the police intervention, a crew member known as a "notary"—responsible for overseeing the cargo—attempted to destroy the evidence by causing a fuel explosion. The blast proved fatal for Vitali M., who died from severe burns, while the rest of the crew was arrested.
The court sentenced the "notary," Iman B., to 27 years in prison. The other crew members received seven-year sentences, with Andrey K. receiving an additional three months for his role as a leader. This ruling highlights the Spanish authorities' commitment to dismantling the logistical networks that facilitate global drug trafficking.