One of the largest anti-drug operations in recent years has concluded in the Canary Islands. Police and Guardia Civil actions led to the arrest of the alleged leader of a major criminal group, known as ‘José el del Buque’. Along with him, 16 other people were detained, and nearly 100 kilograms of cocaine and a similar amount of hashish were seized.
The operation spanned several islands of the archipelago, including Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, La Gomera, and Fuerteventura. Law enforcement carried out more than twenty searches in homes, on yachts and boats, as well as in luxury vehicles. Among the confiscated property were 14 real estate assets, 38 cars, and 24 vessels. Large sums of cash and extensive documentation were also found, which are now being examined by experts.
The group’s leader, José Ramón A.S., turned himself in at the station in Las Palmas when he realized he was surrounded. His name became widely known in the spring of last year, when his wife and son were kidnapped by unknown individuals. At the time, the incident was linked to conflicts within the drug market. Later, police arrested five suspects in the abduction—some in Málaga, others in Gran Canaria.
Investigators note that the organization specialized in transporting large shipments of cocaine by sea, using sophisticated concealment methods and modern technology. During two pursuits in open waters, the main drug shipments were intercepted. The operation, dubbed ‘Krovnye Uzy’ (“Blood Ties”), lasted for over a year and was coordinated with the participation of international bodies, including the British crime agency, the US DEA, as well as Europol and Portuguese police.
Law enforcement emphasizes that the arrest of Jose el del Buque was a key moment in the fight against international drug trafficking. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests may be made in the near future. All seized assets and cash have been handed over to the court. The operation is still underway, and police do not rule out further high-profile arrests.
