Major Marijuana Trafficking Ring Busted in Fuengirola
In a significant operation, the National Police have dismantled an international marijuana trafficking organization in Fuengirola, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals. The accused were renting luxury villas in secluded areas of Mijas and Marbella using fake documents, transforming these properties into large indoor marijuana farms.
Operation “Onuba” Seizes Over a Thousand Marijuana Plants
The operation, dubbed “Onuba”, concluded with the search of six residences and the seizure of 1,051 marijuana plants, 143 kilograms of marijuana buds ready for distribution, 139 grams of hashish, 4,575 euros in cash, six nitrous oxide canisters, 17 mobile phones, and a large amount of relevant documentation, among other items.
Investigation Focuses on Intensive Production and Trafficking
The investigation, conducted by agents from the Organized Crime Group of the Fuengirola Police Station, began in July 2023 based on information received about several individuals involved in intensive production, stockpiling, and subsequent trafficking of narcotics to Central European countries.
Initial Findings Lead to Discovery of Marijuana Cultivation
Initial inquiries led to the discovery of a property in Mijas, located in a low-traffic area, showing signs of being converted into an indoor marijuana farm. As a result of police work, several individuals were identified as being responsible for managing this cultivation. Additionally, two other luxury homes, also set up as greenhouses, and a fourth property used for storing the harvested drugs were located.
Identification of Additional Members and Roles within the Organization
During the investigation, the National Police were able to identify other members of the organization, further defining the role each one played and their level of involvement. With the collection of numerous probative indications, the agents carried out six simultaneous entries and searches, with the collaboration of agents from the Prevention and Reaction Unit (UPR) of Malaga, Fuengirola, and Marbella.
Illegal Electricity Manipulation Confirmed
Technicians from an electricity supply company confirmed fraudulent manipulation of supply points in several of the properties in question.
Arrests Made During Harvesting and Supervision of Goods
The operation culminated with the “in flagrante” arrest of 13 individuals while they were engaged in harvesting, supervising, and/or guarding the merchandise. Six residences were searched, where 1,051 marijuana plants, 143 kilograms of marijuana buds, 139 grams of hashish, 4,575 euros in cash, six nitrous oxide canisters, 4.5 grams of MDMA, over a dozen ecstasy pills, and 17 mobile phones were seized, among other items.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The arrested individuals, charged with drug trafficking, belonging to a criminal organization, electricity fraud, and document forgery, were brought before the Court of Instruction number 1 of Fuengirola, which ordered the imprisonment of four of the accused.
