National Police agents dismantled a criminal network dedicated to international drug trafficking in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. In a coordinated operation with the National Passenger Information Office, they seized about 23 kilograms of heroin. The group maintained entry routes for drugs between Amsterdam and its airports, operating from a strategic base in the archipelago. Nine individuals were arrested, six men and three women, on charges of being members of a criminal organization.
police investigation
The inquiry began over ten months ago after multiple reports linked narcotics use to direct flights from the Netherlands through Gran Canaria Airport. In the course of the investigation, authorities identified the ringleader of the organization and, in collaboration with the National Passenger Information Office, as well as the Intelligence Center Against Terrorism and Organized Crime, exposed the infrastructure that allowed drug entry between the two airports.
1,000,000 doses of heroin
The group dismantled by the National Police was not only one of the most violent criminal factions but also a major heroin importer for the entire archipelago. Investigators estimate that the seizure of roughly 23 kilograms of heroin prevented the circulation of more than a million doses. In addition, the operation yielded more than 13,000 doses of ecstasy, over 5,000 doses of cocaine, and 2 kilograms of marijuana.
32 kilos of narcotics and 14 kilos of adulterants
The operation led to the arrest of six men and three women during four searches in the capital of Gran Canaria. The day marked the largest heroin seizure ever recorded in the Canary Islands, totaling 22.8 kilograms, along with 5 kilograms of ecstasy, 2.2 kilograms of cocaine, 2 kilograms of marijuana, and 14 kilograms of adulterants. Electronic devices, 50 unexploded shells, a 22 caliber firearm, and more than 5,000 euros in cash were also recovered as part of the investigation.
Following the completion of police procedures, the arrested were placed in the custody of the judicial authorities, who ordered four to remain in detention prior to trial. The operation underscores a sustained commitment to disrupting the supply chains that fuel violent crime and narcotics trafficking across the region. Marked citations: authorities confirmed the coordination between the National Police and the National Passenger Information Office in tracing the routes used for drug entry and the intelligence assets employed to dismantle the operation.