GNR seizes 10,600 kg of hashish in Guadiana river and detains ten suspects
The GNR and Spanish Civil Guard dismantled two drug storage centres in the municipalities of Vila Real de Santo António and Castro Marim.
Ten detained and over ten tonnes of hashish seized on the Guadiana
The GNR dismantled a drug trafficking network operating on the banks of the Guadiana river, detaining ten people and seizing approximately 10,600 kilogrammes of hashish, according to Correio da Manhã. The operation took place in the municipalities of Vila Real de Santo António and Castro Marim and had the collaboration of the Spanish Civil Guard.
In total, 265 packages of cannabis resin were confiscated, along with nine vehicles, two vessels, one pistol with cartridge and ammunition, six mobile phones and more than one thousand euros in cash.
Suspicious movements near the river trigger operation
The operation was triggered after the Civil Guard detected suspicious movements near Costa Ezuri, in the Corte Velha – Azilhal area, on the banks of the Guadiana. Suspecting drug trafficking by maritime route, the Coastal Control and Border Unit mounted a surveillance and control operation.
The GNR mobilised land, maritime and aerial resources for the operation, with reinforcements from the Faro Territorial Command and the Intervention Unit.
Suspects attempt to flee by boat but are intercepted
When they became aware of the presence of the military personnel, several suspects attempted to flee on foot. Shortly afterwards, they seized a light vehicle and a vessel to try to escape. The car was intercepted with no occupants inside.
The GNR's maritime resources located and detained seven of the suspects, who were aboard the fleeing vessel. All are of foreign nationality. The detainees are aged between 21 and 39 years old.
The investigation also made it possible to identify another man allegedly connected to the operation.
Two storage centres dismantled in two countries
The GNR and the Spanish Civil Guard dismantled two drug storage centres that brought in and stored drugs in Spain and Portugal for subsequent distribution throughout the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe.
Source: Correio da Manhã