Spanish authorities have dismantled a significant drug smuggling network linked to the Balkan Cartel, which was responsible for trafficking cocaine from Colombia. The operation utilized various methods, including employing “monkeys,” young swimmers from low-income backgrounds, to transport drugs to containerships. The investigation, involving the National Police, Civil Guard, and Tax Agency, lasted several months and revealed connections among three distinct organizations.
Last summer, police responded to incidents involving containerships reporting stowaways and hijacking attempts. In one case, a ship headed for Cadiz alerted authorities after stowaways were spotted, leading to the discovery of 38 bales of cocaine on deck, totaling 1,355 kilograms. Another vessel in Portuguese waters reported armed stowaways trying to commandeer it while offloading hidden bales.
Subsequent investigations led to the seizure of 88 kilograms of cocaine from a vehicle in Malaga, linking the operation to organizations in Colombia and Spain. Authorities conducted 19 raids, resulting in the confiscation of 2,475 kilograms of cocaine, weapons, €166,000 in cash, and high-value items. They also froze nearly €5 million in real estate and cryptocurrency assets, arresting 30 individuals believed to be involved in this extensive smuggling operation.
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