The National Republican Guard (GNR) dismantled a drug trafficking network between July 7 and 11, operating across eight districts in mainland Portugal and southern Spain.
In a statement to Notícias ao Minuto, the military officials revealed that a total of 49 individuals were arrested, 32 of whom were apprehended on Portuguese soil.
Recently, Spanish authorities detained one individual, adding to the 16 already caught during the 38-month investigation.
In addition to the arrests, authorities seized seven tons of hashish, 650 kg of cocaine, 18 high-speed boats valued at approximately 8 million euros, 40 high-powered engines estimated at around 2.5 million euros, 780,000 euros in cash, 11 firearms, and 24 vehicles.
38-month Investigation and Approximately 100 Raids
The GNR noted that this operation aimed to dismantle the logistical chain of these suspect groups involved in narcotics trafficking, significantly impairing their distribution capabilities in the Iberian Peninsula, thus contributing to an enhanced sense of security among the populations.
During recent days, authorities executed 32 home search warrants in mainland Portugal, 21 non-domestic search warrants, and 35 vehicle search/seizure warrants. In Spain, six home search warrants were executed.
The action, conducted by the GNR’s Special Operations Intervention Group, had been ongoing for 38 months and involved “close cooperation” with the Guardia Civil under the International Police Cooperation framework.
Nationally, it was reinforced with personnel from the Emergency, Protection, and Relief Unit, the Coastal and Border Control Unit, the Fiscal Action Unit, and eight Territorial Commands of the GNR, alongside support from the National Institute of Medical Emergency.
