Costa del Sol saw a serious crackdown as a group linked to organized crime was dismantled after a complex operation that blended humanitarian aid with illegal trafficking. Investigators describe a carefully camouflaged network moving cannabis under the cover of relief shipments. The operation unfolded with a focus on Ukraine, while several Spanish towns observed the flow of boxes that carried both essential supplies and contraband. A notable feature was the use of real aid channels to move the drug, with cannabis concealed among food items and warm clothing distributed by road. A convoy destined for the border with Ukraine was halted in Germany where the cannabis was found vacuum packed inside cardboard boxes.
The inquiry began with the identification of a Ukrainian-led group collecting large quantities of marijuana for distribution across multiple European destinations. Authorities indicate that members traveled across various points of cannabis production in Andalusia, later transferring pre-packaged medicine to an apartment in Mijas, utilizing it as a makeshift warehouse.
One photograph from the scene shows a rural field cleared for the investigation.
Further investigations revealed two minibuses registered in Ukraine intercepted in Fuengirola containing 109 kilograms of vacuum-sealed cannabis hidden among cardboard boxes. Four individuals were arrested on drug trafficking charges. This development marked the first phase of the broader inquiry, which included numerous searches across Malaga province and the seizure of substantial assets. The authorities reported sums of 740,400 euros and 25,250 dollars, along with 20 kilograms of cannabis buds and a stock of cannabis plants. Police equipment recovered included a short firearm and various police supplies such as bulletproof vests and GPS trackers. The suspects faced charges for drug trafficking, membership in a criminal organization, illegal weapon possession, and irregular electricity connections that indicate energy fraud.
Registration of a house and adjacent properties appeared in the evidential record as investigators expanded their footprint in the case.
Phase two of the operation targeted suppliers located in Granada, Cordoba, and Seville, adding a further 14 detainees. Intercepted communications and surveillance connected multiple players to the supply chain. The seizure tally for this phase included 1,500 cannabis plants, 10 kilograms of packaged drugs, five firearms, and 15,000 euros in cash. In the course of arrests, two suspects attempted a reckless escape and crashed a vehicle near a police station, injuring two officers slightly. The fleeing pair were apprehended and charged with road safety offenses and assault on law enforcement personnel.