Major Drug Trafficking Organisation Dismantled in Canaries
Joint Operation Culminates in Significant Seizures
The Guardia Civil and the Tax Agency, in a joint operation supported by EUROPOL, the DEA, and the Judicial Police of Cape Verde, have announced the complete dismantling of a criminal organisation based in the Canary Islands. This follows raids that took place two weeks ago, primarily in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The operation, dubbed Operation SILBO, resulted in the arrest of 34 individuals and the seizure of over two tonnes of cocaine.
During searches conducted at various locations throughout Spain, authorities confiscated modified firearms, more than €600,000 in cash, 16 vehicles, and five boats. Furthermore, assets worth over €2 million were blocked, encompassing both movable and immovable property.
Discovery of Cocaine Processing Lab
The investigation, overseen by the Court of Instruction No. 3 in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, led to the discovery of a cocaine processing and cutting laboratory located on a property in El Escobonal, Tenerife. Here, highly toxic chemicals and equipment used to adulterate the drugs were found.
Key Figure Behind the Operation
The main suspect was identified as a 42-year-old businessman from Tenerife, known for owning several establishments, including the Riela restaurant in Caletillas. He managed companies in various sectors such as hospitality, construction, and nightlife, as well as businesses abroad. According to investigators, he used this network to import cocaine shipments from mother ships originating in South America.
The operation documented several drug traffics, including one of 500 kilograms in January 2024 and another of 1,600 kilograms in November of the same year, both destined for Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Additionally, shipments of hashish from Morocco to the United Kingdom were also intercepted.
Financial Investigation Uncovers Money Laundering Scheme
A parallel financial investigation revealed a money laundering operation involving real estate investments, hospitality businesses, and a vehicle rental company, which was used for both laundering money and distributing drugs. In April, 66 kilograms of cocaine were seized hidden in a vehicle from this company, using a hydraulic system.
Criminal Network’s Violent Nature
Investigators noted that the network included extremely violent members, some with military training, who even engaged in kidnappings and intimidation to seize land in Tenerife. They also planned to purchase illegal firearms on the mainland. This operation is part of the GDIN project, led by the Guardia Civil, in collaboration with EUROPOL and funded by the European Commission, through the Anti-Drug Criminal Intelligence Centre.
