National Police agents arrested a criminal group in the towns of Alicante, Alcoy, and Cocentaina. The ring consisted of eight individuals connected to the trafficking of drugs and armed protection for the substances they handled.
Organized Crime Group I of the Judicial Police in Alicante uncovered that a mix of Moroccan nationals and other local residents were involved in trafficking marijuana and hashish in substantial quantities.
The investigation began in mid-February of the previous year. Early inquiries by the National Police into offenses not directly linked to trafficking, such as forcible robbery, violent theft, and fraud, revealed that many alleged offenders acted as individuals but belonged to a broader, more intricate illicit network.
Further inspection of the detainees’ surroundings exposed a professionalized vigilante framework with stability over time, a clearly defined hierarchy, and a distinct allocation of roles within the group.
With the exception of one detainee, the others did not appear to be connected to legitimate businesses, yet witnesses observed them driving several high-end vehicles and living a lifestyle well beyond their apparent means.
Strong structured and hierarchical organization
—
The operation involved the seizure of the gang’s materials and highlighted a well-organized structure with a clear division of tasks. One leader could be identified, along with a second figure responsible for personal protection, who accompanied the leader in negotiations and acted when necessary.
The criminal network also included multiple individuals with security and logistics duties. They safeguarded drug storage, organized distribution, and oversaw payments, transportation, and storage of the substances.
Within the inner circle, several members handled the sale and distribution of smaller quantities of marijuana, effectively creating a retail channel that complemented larger-scale transactions. This diversification ensured a steady cash flow and reduced risk of total loss if any single branch faced trouble.
Detention and seizure device for drugs and weapons
To arrest all members, the Judicial Police Group coordinated with different specialized units, including the Air Media Unit of the Alicante Provincial Police Station. This unit provided essential on-ground and airborne support for the operation.
Agents from the Special Security Operation Group (GOES) of the Valencian Community’s Supreme Police Headquarters were deployed to handle area-specific tasks. Several suspects were detained at their residences, in what were considered sensitive interventions by the National Police.
—
The operation resulted in the seizure of firearms and substantial quantities of marijuana, including several kilos of cannabis varieties, along with substantial cash. Four high-end vehicles used in the crimes were also seized, one of which was located in a town near Barcelona.
Extremely serious criminal acts with major economic benefits
Those involved were observed carrying short firearms loaded with ammunition, and the operation revealed a mobile infrastructure supported by a fleet of high-displacement vehicles. This configuration provided the group with the capacity to carry out activities securely and efficiently.
—
Money, weapons, drugs, and other items were seized during the operation. The structure’s apparent stability and the differentiated duties of its members demonstrated an ability to adapt and distribute roles without widespread involvement in direct crimes. The seized drugs and assets allowed authorities to infer a significant economic advantage gained from illicit activities and aided the ongoing investigation into the organization’s operations.
Ultimately, six detainees were placed under judicial custody by the Courts of Inquiry in Alcoy and Alicante, leaving the investigation into the organization’s locations and potential further actions open for future proceedings.
[CNP attribution]