Two-year op gets results at Algeciras port

A SWOOP at Algeciras port uncovered 4.8 tons of cocaine hidden in shipping containers.

Thirty-two people were arrested in the joint operation by the Policia Nacional, Guardia Civil and Customs officials and 25 are now remanded.

More than 100 vehicles, 87 properties worth €16 million, four boats – one 43 metres long – as well as firearms, silencers and €6 million in cash were also seized.

The operation culminated an investigation that began in 2017 when police learnt that cocaine was entering Algeciras port, camouflaged in containers.

Initial enquiries led to a Barcelona-based businessman with contacts in Spain and Brazil who facilitated the shipments.

Subsequent operations that year led to the interception of 1.1 tons of cocaine in an Algeciras container and a Marbella raid where 2.4 tons of the drug were found in two industrial units.

Surveillance intensified as members of the network were identified in Latin America, Central America and Spain, resulting in a decisive operation last January that ended with 18 arrests, leading to the final operation and the definitive dismantling of the Cadiz and Sevilla-based network.