A major operation targeted a narcotics network described as a globally connected crime group. The investigation into its large-scale drug trafficking led to the seizure of a war arsenal containing assault rifles, rocket launchers, and other military-grade equipment in Asturias. Authorities report the arrest of 19 individuals and the seizure of about 2,600 kilograms of cocaine, including the noted Galician drug smuggler known as The Matador, whom Spanish and Colombian authorities had pursued for years.
Approximately 2,000 kilograms of drugs were intercepted in international Caribbean waters when transported by ship from South America for distribution in Spain, with the remaining 600 kilograms stored in an industrial warehouse in Siero, Asturias.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with DIRAN of the Colombian National Police and the United States Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Investigators traced meetings in Madrid involving Carlos García Morales, nicknamed The Matador, a recognized figure in Galician drug trafficking. Plans were explored to move two tons of cocaine by the end of July 2022, from South America toward Spanish markets.
After halting the sea shipment of drugs, attention turned to the Siero warehouse, where an additional 600 kilograms of cocaine were found. The smugglers allegedly traveled there with a partner described as The Matador, attempting to blend in as a family group to avoid attention. The Galician trafficker had prior arrest history dating back to 2010 due to links with Colombian clans.
A Mexican national acted as notary for the organization, certifying that transactions were completed as agreed and helping to plan vehicle movements while police monitored the route.
Two other individuals were arrested along with several other network members who managed logistics to bring cocaine into Spain.
The warehouse in Asturias also housed a weapons cache, including assault rifles, grenades, explosives, rocket launchers, silencers, and ammunition across multiple calibers. A second batch of weapons was found at the home of the same drug smuggler in Galicia.
Federal and local experts from TEDAX-NRBQ evaluated the rocket launchers, grenades, and detonators, while firearms were taken to Scientific Police laboratories for examination. During an initial assessment, officials determined one rocket launcher was unstable and would be safely destroyed under controlled conditions at a secure location.
This operation highlights the coordinated efforts between Spanish authorities, DIRAN, and U.S. investigative teams to disrupt supply chains, seize illicit assets, and dismantle the leadership structure of a long-standing transnational drug network. Attribution: Spanish Police, DIRAN, HSI.