Gun Trafficking Network Uncovered in Gijón: Dozens of Firearms and Artifacts Seized. Police in Gijón have arrested five people in a firearms trafficking case. Authorities seized 53 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and archaeological artifacts. Among those detained is a previously convicted collector.
In Gijón, police conducted a major operation against illegal arms trafficking, seizing 53 different firearms, over 9,000 rounds of ammunition, and a collection of archaeological items. Five people were detained, including the alleged organizer — a pensioner who had previously been prosecuted for similar offenses. This was reported by the Spanish Ministry of the Interior.
Secret arsenal in a residential neighborhood
The investigation began in August 2025, when officers from the police intelligence units in Oviedo and Gijón noticed suspicious activity around a local resident who had previously been arrested for drug trafficking. For eight months, investigators tracked his regular visits to a rented storage unit in the Laviada district, where he spent long periods of time.
During a search of the premises, police discovered not only weapons — from historical pieces to hunting rifles and even a military submachine gun — but also a fully equipped workshop with industrial equipment for repairing and modifying firearms. They also found tools for assembling ammunition, 2.5 kilograms of gunpowder, and more than 4,000 shell casings. According to investigators, the detainee was involved not only in repair, but also in manufacturing and selling weapons and ammunition on the black market.
Archaeological finds and cash
In addition to weapons, the searches of the suspects’ apartments led to the confiscation of ancient amphorae, oil lamps, Roman-era coins, arrowheads, as well as items of Egyptian and pre-Columbian origin. The origins and cultural value of these artifacts are currently being determined. Police also found €10,000 in cash, which investigators believe could be linked to illegal activities.
Connections and Clients
Among those detained were alleged suppliers and buyers of weapons. Investigators believe the network operated in a coordinated manner: one member was responsible for the technical side, while others handled distribution and supplies. During the operation, the police also uncovered instances of illegal ammunition trading. Similar cases related to the illicit trafficking of weapons and valuables have repeatedly drawn the attention of law enforcement agencies. For example, in Madrid recently, law enforcement officers returned a large sum to the victim of fraud, highlighting the relevance of the fight against criminal schemes (details on the recovery of funds after the scam).
Next Steps
All confiscated items have been sent for examination. Police continue the investigation to identify all those involved and to determine how the archaeological valuables entered Spain. Authorities emphasize that such operations are aimed at preventing the spread of illegal weapons and preserving cultural heritage.
