Rabat – In a collaborative effort between Moroccan and Spanish authorities, a smuggling attempt from Morocco was intercepted off the coast of Gran Canaria, resulting in the seizure of 2,345 kilograms of hashish (marijuana).
Acting on intelligence provided by the General Directorate of Surveillance of the Moroccan territory (DGST), Spanish law enforcement agencies launched a joint operation to intercept a rubber dinghy attempting to smuggle drugs onto the shores of Gran Canaria.
Utilizing both maritime and land-based units, agents from the Judicial Police Unit and the Provincial Maritime Service of the Civil Guard in Las Palmas coordinated efforts to apprehend the traffickers and seize the illicit cargo.
The interception, a testament to the close collaboration between Morocco and Spain in combating drug trafficking, thwarted the attempts of criminals seeking to exploit maritime routes for their illegal activities.
Under the vigilant watch of the authorities, a suspicious rubber dinghy sailing without lights near the coast was identified and intercepted. Upon closer inspection, it was found to be laden with numerous bales of hashish, revealing to be transporting drugs from Morocco to Spain.
The seizure, totaling 66 bales of hashish weighing over 2,300 kilograms, underscores the magnitude of the smuggling attempt and the determination of law enforcement to disrupt such criminal enterprises.
In addition to the confiscation of the illicit cargo, essential equipment used in the smuggling operation, including the rubber dinghy, outboard motors, satellite phone, and GPS devices, was also seized by authorities.
Two suspects, believed to be the pilots of the intercepted dinghy, were promptly apprehended and are now facing charges related to drug trafficking. Following their arrest, they were placed in provisional detention pending further legal proceedings.
The organized crime and narcotics unit of Las Palmas has taken charge of the investigation, with the detainees and seized evidence handed over to investigating court number one for prosecution.
