Spanish Police Seize Record-Breaking 10 Tons of Cocaine Off Canary Islands
In a massive international law enforcement operation, Spanish authorities have intercepted a merchant vessel carrying nearly 10 tons of cocaine, marking the largest maritime drug seizure in the nation’s history. The raid, which took place roughly 330 miles off the Canary Islands, was the result of a coordinated effort between the Spanish National Police, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), and authorities from Brazil and France.
The vessel originally set sail from Brazil, officially carrying a cargo of salt intended for Europe. However, hidden beneath the layers of salt, investigators discovered 294 silver-wrapped bales of high-purity cocaine. In total, the haul weighed 9,436 kilograms—nearly 10.5 tons.
Police released footage of the operation showing officers using shovels to dig through the salt to uncover the hidden narcotics. In a strange turn of events, the ship had actually run out of fuel during its transatlantic journey and was being towed toward the coast when authorities moved in to strike.
This seizure shatters previous records for maritime drug busts in Spain. The previous record had stood for 25 years, dating back to a 1999 seizure of 7.5 tonnes of cocaine.
“This is a historic blow against the major international organizations dedicated to the transport of cocaine across the Atlantic.”
– Police Spokesperson
Police arrested 13 crew members found on board. During the search, officers also recovered a firearm, which authorities believe was used by the crew to protect the multi-million dollar cargo from potential “rip-deals” or rival traffickers. The suspects are currently in custody as the investigation continues to trace the specific criminal syndicate responsible for organizing the shipment.
This bust highlights a growing trend of “mega-shipments” where trafficking organizations attempt to move massive quantities of narcotics in single, high-stakes maritime voyages.
H/T – [Mixmag]
