Massive Police Operation in Marbella Yields Significant Results
On Tuesday, 11th March, Marbella witnessed a large-scale operation by the National Police involving both foot and aerial patrols. The operation led to 21 house searches, the unearthing of 17 drug safe houses, 43 arrests, and the seizure of a significant amount of weapons, drugs, and money.
Drug Trafficking Clan’s Fortified Building Breached
The police operation focused on a building in the Las Albarizas neighbourhood, which was heavily fortified by the drug trafficking clan. After removing the bars blocking the doors, the police were able to commence their search. The operation, named ‘Margen’, spanned the entire morning.
Secret Rooms and Modified Building Structures Uncovered
Upon entering the building, the police discovered that the interior structure had been significantly altered. The basement, originally open-plan, had been divided into rooms accessible only from the ground floor flats, presumably for use as escape routes. In one of the homes, a secret exit was found behind a painting, leading to a lower level connected to the outside via a small tunnel. An attempted escape through this exit was thwarted by the police.
‘Margen’ Operation Aims to Restore Urban Legality
One of the key objectives of the ‘Margen’ operation was to restore urban legality. As a result, 17 social housing units in Las Albarizas were reclaimed. Searches were conducted in apartments owned by the regional government and the local council, with most of them being reclaimed and sealed off. The Andalusian regional government and Marbella town hall have begun a census process of the occupants of these homes, with the aim of assigning them to individuals with proven housing needs.
Illegal Electrical Connections and Seized Items
As part of the operation, an inspection of the flats’ electrical system was carried out by a supply company, revealing illegal connections that posed a safety risk to the occupants. The police seized a variety of items, including firearms, bladed weapons, cartridges, motor vehicles, jewellery, drugs, and a substantial amount of cash. The suspects’ bank accounts, one of which held a balance of over 100,000 euros, were also frozen.
Stolen Moped, Caged Birds, and Other Farm Animals Found
The investigation also led to the discovery of a stolen moped, caged cocks used for fighting, and other farm animals. A total of 82 birds were handed over to animal welfare services.
