Drugs trafficking network dismantled for sending cannabis from Spain to France via parcel services
Ten arrested and €278,000 confiscated following joint operation between Spanish and French authorities coordinated by Europol.
Drugs trafficking network dismantled for sending cannabis from Spain to France via parcel services
A criminal organisation engaged in drug trafficking, which used courier companies to transport large quantities of cannabis from Spain to France, has been dismantled following an operation coordinated between authorities in both countries. Information was published by Adevărul.
Between 15 and 19 June 2026, law enforcement conducted 24 house searches and arrested ten people suspected of being members of the criminal group. During the raids, €278,000 in cash was seized, along with cannabis, other narcotics, firearms and several vehicles.
According to Europol, the gang operated by sending packages of marijuana from Barcelona to the Rennes area in north-western France. Investigators managed to identify at least 114 shipments made between September 2024 and the time of the operation, which in total contained approximately 1.45 tonnes of cannabis.
The criminal structure had three main leaders: two of them were based in Spain and were responsible for supplying and shipping the drugs, whilst the third operated from France, where he received the packages and managed subsequent distribution.
To evade police control, members of the group used false identities when preparing shipments from Spanish territory. They also used the same parcel service system to send the profits obtained from selling drugs in France back to Spain. Cash was hidden in boxes fitted with GPS devices so they could track their journey.
Europol estimates that the assets accumulated by the criminal network, which include property, are worth approximately four million euros. The European agency collaborated in the investigation by facilitating the exchange of information and coordinating authorities in France and Spain. Eurojust, meanwhile, helped in the execution of European arrest warrants.
According to Europol data, illegal cannabis trade generates approximately 12 billion euros annually and remains one of the most lucrative sources of income for criminal organisations in Europe. The substantial profits obtained are typically reinvested in other forms of serious crime, allowing these gangs to expand their influence and diversify their illegal activities.
Source: Google News RO — Crime (ro)