Spanish authorities have dismantled a criminal network utilizing drones to smuggle drugs from Morocco into Spain. The operation, dubbed “Cell,” culminated in the arrest of nine individuals following months of investigation and technical surveillance, according to sources within the Guardia Civil.
The Guardia Civil revealed that the network employed fixed-wing drones capable of long-distance, low-altitude flights to transport shipments of hashish from the Moroccan coast to pre-determined locations within Spanish territory. The drones allowed the smugglers to bypass traditional border controls.
The operation was overseen by the regional command of the Guardia Civil in Algeciras, which deployed sophisticated electronic monitoring equipment to track the drones’ flight paths and identify those involved in the network’s activities. This marks a significant blow against increasingly sophisticated drug smuggling techniques.
The dismantling of this network underscores Spain’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking, particularly the smuggling of hashish from Morocco, a major producer and primary source for the European market. Authorities are concerned about the growing use of technology in illicit activities.
In recent months, the Guardia Civil has successfully dismantled several drug trafficking networks as part of its commitment to combating drug smuggling from Morocco. The use of drones represents a new challenge for law enforcement agencies. This operation highlights the Guardia Civil’s dedication to adapting its strategies and utilizing advanced technologies to counter evolving criminal tactics.
