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theguardian.com

Record Cocaine Seizure in Spain

Spanish authorities seize a record 13 tonnes of cocaine hidden in a banana shipment from Ecuador, exceeding previous records and highlighting a large-scale international drug trafficking operation.

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English

United Kingdom

EuropeLatin AmericaLaw EnforcementInternational CrimeCocaineDrug Smuggling

Policía NacionalSpanish Customs

António Jesús Martínez

Where and when did the shipment arrive?: The container arrived in Algeciras on October 14th. Authorities noticed inconsistencies between the declared cargo and the container's contents, leading to a thorough search that uncovered the hidden cocaine.
What was the size of the cocaine seizure in Spain?: Spanish police and customs officers intercepted over 13 tonnes of cocaine hidden in a banana shipment from Ecuador, the largest such seizure in Spanish history and one of the largest in Europe.
What is the significance of the size of the drug haul?: The sheer size of the cocaine haul (13 tonnes) indicates an international distribution network, exceeding the capacity of the Spanish market alone; the drugs were destined for distribution throughout Europe.
What arrests were made in connection with the drug bust?: A partner in the company that was to receive the shipment was arrested in Toledo, while two directors remain at large. Searches of properties in Alicante and Madrid yielded substantial documentation related to the operation.
How does this seizure compare to previous drug busts in Spain?: This seizure surpasses the previous record in Spain (9.4 tonnes in 2022) and highlights the persistent challenge of international drug trafficking operations.

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