Drug trafficking network dismantled in the south-east with 28 arrested and over €720,000 seized
The Guardia Civil dismantled a criminal organisation engaged in drug trafficking in the Murcia region, with 28 arrests, 30 kilos of cocaine and over €720,000 seized.
Drug trafficking network dismantled in the south-east with 28 arrested and over €720,000 seized
The Guardia Civil dismantled a criminal organisation engaged in drug trafficking in the Murcia region, specifically in the municipalities of Cartagena, La Unión, Los Alcázares, Torre Pacheco and San Javier. The operation resulted in 28 people arrested and the seizure of 30 kilograms of cocaine, over €720,000 in cash and various vehicles equipped with hidden compartments.
According to El Periódico, the investigation was initiated in early 2025 following the detection of an increase in criminal activity in the area. Officers identified a hierarchical structure led by a Spanish citizen aged 45 with an extensive criminal history.
The gang's modus operandi consisted of introducing large quantities of cocaine from South America, using shipping containers that arrived at Cartagena port. The drug was subsequently stored in industrial warehouses and residential properties in the area for distribution on the domestic market.
During the execution phase, investigators carried out 14 simultaneous searches of residential properties and commercial premises. In one of the buildings, a processing laboratory was found where the substance was adulterated and prepared for retail sale.
In addition to the 30 kilos of cocaine, officers seized 12 kilograms of amphetamine, 5,000 ecstasy tablets and various quantities of marijuana and hashish. The money seized amounted to over €720,000, concealed in vehicle hidden compartments and in double-bottomed furniture.
The operation also resulted in the seizure of 21 high-end vehicles, some of them equipped with sophisticated concealment systems for transporting drugs and money. Five firearms, ammunition and encrypted communications equipment were also confiscated.
Of the 28 arrested, six were released with charges after appearing before a judge, whilst the remainder were held in provisional detention. Among those arrested are citizens of Spanish, Colombian and Romanian nationality.
The investigation was conducted by the Organised Crime and Anti-Drug Team (EDOA) of the Guardia Civil in Murcia, with the collaboration of the Tax Agency and the National Police. The operation falls within the framework of the Plan to Combat Drug Trafficking promoted by the Ministry of the Interior.
Source: Google News ES — Crime (es)