Europol, in cooperation with Spanish authorities, dismantled a criminal group trafficking cocaine from Colombia and Panama to Spain, with key financiers based in Dubai. Over 1 ton of cocaine was seized in the operation.
Europol, in collaboration with Spanish authorities, has successfully dismantled a major criminal network involved in cocaine trafficking from Colombia and Panama to Spain, alongside money laundering operations. Among those suspected in the trafficking ring, Europol highlights the involvement of several Albanian individuals based in Dubai who played a crucial role in financing the operation.
Key Findings from the Investigation
The criminal group was orchestrating a sophisticated drug trade, with Albanian financiers in Dubai using funds to purchase cocaine from Colombia and Panama. The drugs were then trafficked into Spain, where they were distributed through corrupt ports.
Between December 2024 and January 2025, Europol’s operation led to the arrest of 22 individuals, including Spanish and Colombian nationals. Authorities managed to seize over 1 ton of cocaine, 48 firearms, 53 bank accounts, and more than €6.5 million in cash.
How the Network Operated
The investigation, which began in June 2022, uncovered the use of containers that entered Spanish ports carrying cocaine hidden inside. The Colombian members of the group were responsible for sending the cocaine, while Bulgarian and Spanish operatives, aided by corrupt workers, facilitated the entry of the drugs into Spain.
During the operation, rescue teams hid within containers to sneak into the port and, with the help of corrupt port workers, removed the cocaine under the cover of night.
Connection to Panama and Dubai
Further investigation revealed that 4.1 tons of cocaine seized in Panama in October 2024 were also destined for Spain. Investigators suspect that this load is linked to the criminal group, financially supported by Albanians based in Dubai.
Impact of the Operation
The success of this operation highlights the international reach of drug trafficking networks and the importance of cross-border cooperation in combating organized crime. Europol’s efforts have struck a major blow against this criminal enterprise, preventing the distribution of massive quantities of cocaine and disrupting the laundering of illicit profits.
