Europol-backed operations in Spain and Portugal have seized more than 4 tonnes of cocaine and led to over 60 arrests between November 2024 and September 2025. Traffickers increasingly relied on sophisticated concealment methods, from chemical modifications to hiding drugs in cowhides, making detection at ports nearly impossible. One group allegedly shipped dozens of containers from the Dominican Republic before police dismantled their network earlier this month.
In a parallel case, Spanish customs and Guardia Civil targeted a violent gang moving cocaine on fishing vessels and speedboats. The group, led by a Spanish “high value target,” also laundered profits through fishing companies and was linked to extortion and kidnappings. Assets worth millions, including properties, cars, and vessels, were seized alongside firearms.
