In a coordinated operation, authorities disrupted a criminal network dedicated to drug trafficking through vehicles. The gang specialized in concealing narcotics inside vehicles designed with secret compartments, commonly known as caletas. During the bust, approximately 14 kilograms of cocaine were seized, underscoring the scale of the trafficking scheme and the danger it posed to communities in the Valencian Community and beyond. (National Police, attribution)
Nine individuals, both Spanish and Romanian nationals aged between 38 and 49, were detained by officers from the Elche Police Station’s Narcotics Group. The arrests marked a significant breakthrough in suppressing a network that depended on hidden drug loads to distribute supplies to other traffickers across multiple cities, including major hubs in the Valencian Community and Madrid. (National Police, attribution)
The investigation began with questions about the transport methods used to move drugs in vehicles equipped with concealed compartments. Through persistent surveillance and monitoring, investigators mapped out the organization’s operations, identified the specific vehicles in use, and confirmed the identities of key members. (National Police, attribution)
Two vehicles were stopped using a tracking device; one of them concealed eight packets of cocaine, weighing a total of 9,258 grams. The second car served as a shuttle, functioning as a beacon for the main transport unit by signaling possible police checks. This dual-vehicle tactic revealed the level of planning and coordination behind the illicit supply chain. (National Police, attribution)
As part of the broader operation, three searches were conducted at residences across two rural areas of the Orihuela district. Authorities recovered substantial quantities of drugs, including 4,732 grams of cocaine and 3,525 grams of marijuana. Investigators also seized 18,000 euros in cash, five firearms with a large magazine of ammunition, a ballistic vest, precision scales, and nine vehicles, some of which appeared to be luxury models, suggesting a lucrative and professional operation. (National Police, attribution)
Collectively, the operation led to the arrest of nine individuals. In addition to drug trafficking offenses, charges included participation in a criminal organization and illegal weapons possession. The arrests were coordinated by the Narcotics Group of the Elche Police Station, with proceedings proceeding under the protection of the Court of Investigation on duty in Orihuela. Four of the detainees were immediately remanded to prison, reflecting the severity of the charges and the strength of the evidence. (National Police, attribution)
The case highlights the ongoing commitment of regional law enforcement to combat organized crime operating across municipal and provincial borders. By focusing on the use of concealed compartments in vehicles, investigators were able to disrupt supply chains that fed drug markets in both urban centers and rural districts. The operation also illustrates how collaboration among police units and the use of surveillance technology can yield decisive results in complex trafficking networks. (National Police, attribution)