ThisTorrevieja Civil Guard disbanded a network of cannabis associations that operated as drug outlets in Torrevieja. In the same operation, nineteen people were arrested, and ten buildings and residences were searched.
Detainees were charged according to their degree of participation against public health, possession of illegal weapons, and belonging to a criminal organization. They were brought before a Torrevieja Investigation Court, which ordered all of them to be released on precautionary measures.
During one of the searches, authorities uncovered a hidden cannabis production center where cannabis-derived products were manufactured, including chocolates, cookies, resins, oils, and beverages.
The judiciary ordered the temporary closure of seven associations involved in the investigation for a period of five years as a preventive measure to protect community safety and well-being, according to the Alicante Command.
start of investigation
An inquiry began after police observed a rise in drug-related abuses and possession within certain areas of Torrevieja. Among the users and suppliers were minors and foreign tourists.
The Civil Guard supported the investigation after detecting an increase in cannabis-related crimes around the buildings of cannabis associations and discovering that some leaders had prior drug-trafficking records.
The main operation base in Torrevieja was established as part of a nationwide police response plan to combat cannabis cultivation and trafficking. It served as a registry to examine the causes of the surge and identify the alleged perpetrators.
Joint model and police record
The operation took place in March and April, and according to police sources, there was a common pattern in these districts: they showed clear ties to marijuana distribution. As a result, investigators focused on seven relevant Torrevieja associations.
The leaders of these organizations began their activities under the guise of non-profit associations, but a few were linked to drug trafficking records.
Marijuana amounts per partner
Investigations determined that these associations did not consistently comply with their regulations. The amount of cannabis allowed per member was exceeded, consumption occurred outside designated areas, and there were no clear records about the source of the product. Four associations were not properly registered according to the National Register of Associations.
Findings showed that these clubs did not limit activity to members alone. They reportedly sold to minors and even recommended foreign tourists. For the Civil Guard, the investigated associations appeared to function merely as fronts to legitimize drug production and distribution.
eight nations
The operation unfolded in several stages from March 28 to April 26. Seven searches were conducted at association centers and three at the homes of some of those responsible. In total, nineteen people aged 25 to 69 from eight nationalities were identified, including citizens from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Lithuania, Chile, and Spain.
During the searches, authorities seized 9,338 kilograms of cannabis, 1,276 kilograms of hashish, 30 grams of cocaine, 32 liters of liquid cannabis, 42 cannabis plants, 60 jars containing liquid hemp, various prohibited weapons, and more than ten thousand euros in cash.