National Police closes two cannabis clubs in Alfaz del Pi and Denia for illegal sales to tourists
The National Police has shut down two cannabis associations that were selling drugs to tourists in Costa Blanca towns. Several arrests were made.
Closure of illegal cannabis clubs on the Costa Blanca
According to The Olive Press, the National Police has dismantled two cannabis clubs that were operating illegally in Alfaz del Pi and Denia, selling narcotics to tourists under the guise of legitimate associations. Cannabis clubs are legal in Spain provided that members bring their own supplies to authorised premises, which are prohibited from selling drugs.
In Alfaz del Pi, two men aged 25 and 32 were arrested, identified as president and secretary-treasurer of the association. In Denia, the operation resulted in the arrest of five men and one woman aged between 22 and 50, including club officials. The nationalities of those detained in both operations have not been disclosed.
The Alfaz establishment advertised itself on cannabis association websites to attract domestic and international tourists. Police were alerted to the activity and observed a steady flow of people, mostly tourists, entering the premises and leaving quickly after brief stays. Among the buyers identified were numerous foreigners staying in the area. Local residents also filed complaints about the activity.
A court order permitted the search of the premises, which lacked a licence from the local council. Officers seized 295 grammes of cannabis buds, 331 grammes of hashish and 221 grammes of hashish oil, in addition to several cannabis cigarettes, 0.60 grammes of cocaine and 520 euros in cash.
The operation in Denia was carried out at the start of summer. The club was registered legally as an entity dedicated to "naturism and alternative medicine", but operated as a front for the sale of narcotic substances. Suspicions arose after information was received about the frequent movement of young people using the facilities. Surveillance confirmed that drugs were being supplied to customers who were not club members. Numerous foreign tourists, on holiday in the town, visited the establishment.
The premises were closed by court order issued on 7 October and will remain sealed until the conclusion of legal proceedings against the six accused. Officers seized 2,126 grammes of cannabis, 1,031 grammes of hashish, 601 cannabis cigarettes and 670 euros in cash.
Source: The Olive Press