One of the largest anti-drug operations in recent years has concluded in the Balearic Islands. The coordinated efforts of law enforcement led to the arrest of 76 people, including a former head of the National Police’s anti-narcotics division. The operation dealt a major blow to organized crime networks controlling the trafficking of cocaine and hashish into Spain and abroad.
The drug trafficking was carried out through a complex scheme: shipments first arrived from North African countries on high-speed inflatable boats. Out at sea, the drugs were loaded onto larger vessels, which then docked at ports in Ibiza. The illegal substances were stored in warehouses before being distributed across the islands or sent to other European countries.
The investigation revealed that an international group was behind the operation, including members of the notorious biker gang United Tribuns. Their connections stretched far beyond Spain, allowing them to set up reliable distribution channels. Among those detained was former police inspector Faustino Nogales, who, according to investigators, helped the criminals evade law enforcement. He is currently in custody awaiting trial.
Major seizures and exposures
The operation began last autumn, when 200 kilograms of hashish were found on a vessel traveling from Ibiza to Palma. The next phase led to the seizure of almost 700 kilograms of cocaine in the port of Valencia. This shipment was delivered to Ibiza from another ship, then transported to the mainland and other European countries.
In August, law enforcement struck another blow against the group, arresting 15 people, including United Tribuns leader Stefan Milojević and a former police officer. Both were taken into custody. During searches, officers found modern surveillance equipment, night vision devices, mobile phones, and computers—evidence of a highly organized criminal operation.
Financial flows and court cases
As a result of the operation, more than one and a half million euros in cash were seized, nearly 700 kilograms of cocaine, 2.5 tons of hashish, as well as other drugs: marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, LSD, and ecstasy. Four underground marijuana plantations were dismantled, with more than 1,500 plants found growing.
Some of those detained have already appeared in court. Five group members were sentenced to 15 years in prison for drug trafficking. The gang leader received a year and a half, but avoided jail due to his lack of previous convictions. Among those arrested was lawyer Gonzalo Márquez, suspected of money laundering.
Criminal technology and methods
Investigators note that members of the group used sophisticated methods to conceal their activities. They employed electronic trackers, geolocation systems, and vigilantly monitored for potential surveillance. Thanks to these measures, the criminals managed to evade exposure for a long time. However, the coordinated efforts of the police and the Guardia Civil made it possible to dismantle the entire network and deliver a devastating blow to it.
The operation in the Balearic Islands has become an example of effective action against international drug trafficking and demonstrated that even the most elaborate criminal schemes can be uncovered.
