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Rabat – Police in the city of Laayoune, working closely with Morocco’s domestic intelligence service (DGST), have stopped a large drug smuggling operation early Tuesday morning. Authorities seized 8.6 tons of cannabis resin, known locally as “chira,” and arrested three suspects aged between 18 and 37.
According to a security source, the operation took place in a rural area near Boujdour, in coordination with the Royal Gendarmerie. Police caught the suspects in the act while attempting to transport the drugs internationally by sea. Police found 217 packages of chira loaded in a car and a truck, along with two inflatable boats and two boat engines believed to be used for the smuggling attempt.
The three individuals have been placed in police custody as part of an ongoing judicial investigation led by the competent public prosecutor. Authorities aim to identify other members of the network and uncover the full scope of the operation.
This case is part of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to fight international drug trafficking, led by the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) and the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST), the security source concluded.
Drug trafficking networks often target the southern regions of Morocco because of their long and less densely populated coastline. These areas provide discreet departure points for smugglers trying to move drugs by sea toward international destinations.
Cannabis resin produced in Morocco is mainly trafficked to Europe, especially countries like Spain and beyond. Smugglers often use fast boats to cross the Mediterranean or the Atlantic routes, depending on the point of departure.
Morocco has increased security operations in recent years, with stronger coordination between police, intelligence services, and the Royal Gendarmerie. Authorities regularly announce large seizures like this one.
