International Drug Trafficking Ring Busted by Joint Police Operation
In a collaborative effort, the National Police, along with French and German authorities, have successfully dismantled a drug trafficking gang. The gang, based in Marbella, was notorious for supplying large quantities of hashish to Germany, establishing a strong presence among criminal gangs in the area.
Leaders of the Gang Arrested
The two leaders of the gang, German nationals of Iranian and Moroccan descent, were known to have armed bodyguards at all times due to the constant threat of attacks from rival drug dealers. The duo conducted their illicit deals from a restaurant they owned in Puerto Banús. The police have linked them to the shipment of over a tonne of cannabis to Germany and the confiscation of 320,000 euros in France.
Eight Arrested in Connection with Drug Trafficking
The investigation, which began in December 2022, led to the arrest of eight individuals, including the restaurant owners. The probe was initiated after three individuals of Colombian and Albanian origin were found with 382,000 euros in cash concealed in a vehicle in the French town of Dax.
Investigation Reveals International Drug Trafficking Network
The French authorities’ investigation revealed that the seized money was intended for the leaders of a criminal organization based in Marbella, allegedly involved in international drug trafficking. The organization also had connections with Germany, the destination for the drugs transported by road from Spain.
Drug Seizures and Intensified Surveillance
Following the investigations, several seizures of narcotic substances were made last summer, believed to have originated from the province of Cadiz. Surveillance of the suspects was intensified in Malaga and Cadiz, leading to the discovery of the organization’s base of operations – the restaurant in Puerto Banús run by its leaders.
Links to Biker Gang and Other Criminals
The investigation also revealed the organization’s connections with prominent members of the biker gang Hells Angels MC, as well as with citizens of Albanian and Bulgarian origin, all with a history of drug trafficking.
Modus Operandi and Final Operation
The gang allegedly transported drugs to Germany by hiding them in secret compartments in vehicles and lorries. The final operation was carried out simultaneously in Spain and Germany at the end of April, resulting in several arrests and seizures, including over 180,000 euros in cash, seven firearms, and 30 kilos of marijuana.
