In recent months, Bilbao has come under the spotlight due to a large-scale operation targeting synthetic drugs. Police actions led to the arrest of a suspected organizer behind one of the largest speed distribution networks in the city’s upscale neighborhoods. This incident has raised serious concerns among residents and authorities, as it highlights the spread of dangerous substances into the most expensive and prestigious areas.
According to El Pais, a man identified as M., 54, lived in an exclusive building on Plaza de Euskadi, an address typically home to business and sports personalities. Despite having no official income or prior convictions, he managed to surround himself with a circle of trusted associates who handled all operations related to narcotics. M. himself avoided direct contact with the drugs, preferring to stay in the background and exercise caution.
Operation in Mungia
The investigation reached its peak with an operation in Mungia, about 18 kilometers from Bilbao. There, in a modest house, police found 287 kilograms of amphetamine sulfate ready for sale. According to estimates, this quantity of speed could be worth over seven million euros on the black market if sold at the lowest price per gram. During the arrest, detectives in plain clothes detained two people found in the house and recorded the entire process on video. Inside, officers located boxes and bags filled with white powder, as well as large amounts of cash in euros and dollars.
The following day, two more suspects were detained. According to investigators, they were responsible for transferring the shipment to buyers. As part of the ongoing investigation, the anti-narcotics prosecutor’s office has seized three properties, bank accounts, and other assets tied to the group’s members.
Investigation details
Alongside the main operation, searches were conducted in Bilbao and Galdakao, resulting in the seizure of an additional 6.5 kilograms of speed, 300 grams of cocaine, and 700 grams of hashish. Police also found large sums of cash hidden in a sports bag. As reported by El Pais, such quantities are rarely confiscated, and in recent years the País Vasco region has become the leader in speed seizures across Spain.
In 2024, official statistics show that just over 1,000 kilograms of amphetamine sulfate were seized nationwide, with 857 kilograms accounted for in País Vasco. This confirms the rise in synthetic drug distribution in the region. In June 2025, police dismantled a speed laboratory 20 kilometers from Bilbao that was capable of producing up to 500 kilograms of the substance per week.
Market and risks
Speed, or amphetamine sulfate, is often called the ‘poor man’s cocaine’ due to its relatively low price and high availability. It’s typically consumed at parties and clubs, mainly among young people. However, the health consequences can be severe: the substance is highly addictive, and prolonged use leads to serious mental and physical disorders.
A surge of drug network activity in the upscale neighborhoods of Bilbao has sparked debate over new measures to combat synthetic drugs. Authorities are considering tightening controls over real estate and financial transactions to stop such schemes at an early stage. Analysis by russpain.com shows that such cases are becoming increasingly common, highlighting the need for a comprehensive response from both law enforcement and society.
Context and similar cases
In recent years, Spain has seen a rise in major cases involving synthetic drugs. For example, a clandestine factory was recently uncovered in Valencia, where dozens of undocumented workers were employed, also leading to a police investigation. Details on how authorities detect and disrupt such operations can be found in our coverage of the fight against illegal business in Valencia: investigation into the clandestine workshop and police action.
The situation in Bilbao highlights that synthetic drugs are infiltrating not only traditionally vulnerable neighborhoods but also the most prestigious districts. This calls for new strategies and constant vigilance from all stakeholders — from the police to local residents.
For reference: In the past two years, Spain has seen several major operations to seize synthetic drugs. In 2025, an underground speed production lab was shut down in a suburb of Bilbao, while large-scale raids against amphetamine distribution networks were carried out in Madrid and Barcelona. Authorities note that synthetic substances are becoming increasingly popular among young people, and distribution schemes are growing more complex and sophisticated. In response, police are strengthening cooperation with international organizations and implementing new investigative methods to promptly detect and disrupt such groups.
