An anonymous citizen complaint helped the Civil Guard uncover an organized group in San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, involved in cultivating and distributing drugs. In the operation, seven individuals were detained, four of whom were arrested on site, and authorities seized 148 adult cannabis plants and 22 kilos of cannabis buds prepared for sale.
The investigation began last November, prompted by local residents who reported suspicious activity. Law enforcement traced an industrial unit in San Vicente del Raspeig where illicit operations appeared to be taking place, prompting further scrutiny and later action.
Illegal electrical hookup
The main station’s investigation unit confirmed the initial reports. While there was no obvious activity inside the facility, investigators observed an illegal electrical connection tied to a foreign-looking power line and unusually high consumption between 7 pm and 7 am. The operators apparently used this setup to avoid drawing attention in the area.
Marijuana was discovered within the facility, marking a significant breakthrough in the case. The authorities intensified surveillance and, on 2 December, detected several people on board, accelerating the inquiry. A search of the site revealed an indoor cannabis cultivation room outfitted with advanced monitoring and security systems.
During the operation, five individuals with Spanish or Romanian nationality, and a Romanian woman, aged 25 to 50, were taken into custody, including a person identified as the group leader. A follow-up search at the leader’s home in Alicante the following day led to the arrest of another suspect, a 36-year-old Russian woman.
Evidence and outcomes
Authorities seized 148 cannabis plants, along with 22 kilograms of cannabis buds, security cameras, mobile devices, and four vehicles, one of which was a luxury model. The street value of the seized items was estimated at around 2,000 euros. The material collected supported charges including drug trafficking, electricity fraud, and participation in a criminal organization.
Detained individuals faced formal charges in connection with the criminal activities at the San Vicente del Raspeig case, and a court ordered the detentions in prison for four suspects, including the group leader, with three remaining in custody without bail.
The Civil Guard reiterates gratitude for ongoing citizen cooperation, which has been crucial to dismantling this drug cultivation network in Alicante. Citizens who wish to report suspicious activity can do so through appropriate, anonymous channels provided by the authorities.