The Policía Nacional investigation began after officers discovered a stolen vehicle being used as a hidden storage place for weapons and other items. The adult suspect has since been remanded in custody, while the two minors have been placed in a juvenile detention centre.

Stolen car used to hide weapons

The investigation began in July when police located a vehicle in Marbella that had recently been stolen in Portugal. The car was displaying duplicated Swedish registration plates and, according to investigators, was being used as a caleta – a concealed storage location – for weapons and other items.

Inside, officers discovered several weapons, including large machetes, along with clown masks and silicone masks designed to resemble human faces.

Police subsequently identified those suspected of being connected with the vehicle and carried out two searches at properties in Marbella.

Five pistols and synthetic drugs seized

Across the investigation, officers seized five semi-automatic pistols, machetes and other weapons. Police also recovered significant quantities of synthetic drugs, including 827 grams of ketamine, 670 grams of 2C-B, 52 grams of MDMA and 425 ecstasy tablets.

Police described the 2C-B as tusi or “pink cocaine”. Despite the nickname, tusi is a term used for synthetic drug mixtures and should not be confused with conventional cocaine.

Officers also seized cash in several currencies: €21,975, £410 and $100.

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Two of those arrested are minors

Three people were arrested in Marbella, two of whom are minors. Policía Nacional says they are suspected of involvement in synthetic drug trafficking and violent offences. Following appearances before the relevant judicial authorities, the adult was ordered into provisional detention. The two minors were sent to a juvenile detention centre.

Police have not provided details of the specific violent incidents the group is suspected of committing. The investigation disclosed so far centres on the weapons, masks, vehicle and drugs recovered by officers.