Police Bust Gang Posing as Officers to Rob Drug Smugglers on Costa del Sol
In a significant operation on the Costa del Sol in Spain, a gang that impersonated police officers to rob drug smugglers at gunpoint has been apprehended. The operation involved the National Police and Guardia Civil, who were heavily armed during the raids. The law enforcement agencies conducted raids on two houses in Estepona and one in Mijas, leading to the arrest of 10 individuals.
Details of the Operation and Arrests
The operation, codenamed ‘Sirena 21’, was initiated following tips from police sources. These sources indicated a criminal organization was behind a series of violent robberies. The gang used ‘military’ firearms and primarily targeted drug gangs in Malaga and Cadiz. The operation led to the arrest of nine individuals in Estepona and Marbella, and one in Ubrique (Cadiz).
Investigation Focuses on Eastern European Ringleader
The investigation, which began in June 2021, led the police to focus on the Eastern European ringleader of the gang, who resided in Estepona. The ringleader was known to use multiple false identities and frequently altered his appearance by dying his hair, growing a beard, and changing his hairstyles.
Identification of Gang Members and Their Roles
The investigation further identified various members of the gang who were responsible for transportation, logistics, and executing the robberies. Once sufficient evidence was gathered, the police moved in and arrested eight men and two women. The charges against them include belonging to a criminal organization, drug trafficking, possession of false documentation, theft of a motor vehicle, and illegal possession of weapons.
Seizure of Drugs, Vehicles, and Weapons
At the time of his arrest, the gang leader was found with a pistol, ready to open fire. The police seized 70 kilos of hashish, 1.6 kilos of cocaine, five vehicles (two of which were stolen), stolen car registration plates, weapons, ammunition, and false identity documents.
Related News
In related news, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has announced that a training base for the Ukraine army will open in Spain before the end of November. In another incident, a letter bomb exploded at the Ukraine Embassy in Spain’s Madrid.
