The parish priest of Don Benito, Alfonso Raúl Masa, has been released on bail after being detained in a probe into drug trafficking. His alleged partner remains in provisional detention without bail, authorities reporting a sustained level of seriousness in the case.
Speaking to reporters, the priest’s attorney, Jesús Carretero, confirmed that Masa was released with charges and asserted that his client had no knowledge of the events. He stated that everything being said is false and insisted there is no evidence that could implicate Masa, arguing that he was unaware of anything at all.
According to a note from the High Court of Extremadura, the judge’s decision came after the court authorized entry and search of the Don Benito residence where Masa lives in official capacity. The Civil Guard recovered two kilograms of mefedrone, a drug with stimulant effects similar to amphetamines that has gained notoriety in nightlife districts, and €3,300 in cash, as reported by Europa Press.
During the operation, part of the so‑called “Operation Botafumeiro,” authorities also found precision scales, two mobile phones, and a laptop that are now being analyzed by the police. Sources specify that among the seized substances there were no viagra pills identified.
Asked whether the seized substances were found at the priest’s home, the attorney said he could not discuss the ongoing investigation but emphasized that no one entered the sacristy, nor was there even a search of it. He also refused to confirm whether the two detainees, the parish priest and a second man for whom the court ordered provisional detention, cohabited. “I cannot say anything further,” he concluded.