Else Beekman
Authorities in Spain, Portugal, and Scotland have arrested ten British nationals in connection with a cocaine smuggling network valued at £96 million (almost 114 million in euros).
The investigation began in 2020 and led to the interception of a Spain-registered yacht by the French Navy on 18 December 2023, 1,200 miles east of Martinique in the Caribbean.
Extensive seizure and arrests
The UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) reported the seizure of 1.2 tonnes of cocaine. This had an estimated street value of £96 million. Among those arrested were seven expats in Spain and Portugal, and three residents of the UK. The operation also saw the arrest of the yacht’s captain, a 30-year-old from Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland, and two other British nationals.
Coordinated international effort
The arrests resulted from a coordinated effort involving various law enforcement agencies, including the following;
- Spain’s National Police
- Norway’s National Criminal Investigation Service
- The US Drug Enforcement Administration
- The European Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre
- Europol supported
Key figures and financial impact
Authorities believe the smuggling operation was part of a larger international cartel trafficking cocaine from South America to Europe. Financial investigations revealed that the drug money was laundered through a network led by female entrepreneurs. A total of 52 individuals have been arrested. Furthermore, assets including eight boats, 36 vehicles, firearms, and ammunition have been seized.
Ongoing investigation and future actions
The NCA confirmed that the gang was led by a Norwegian national suspected of over two decades of drug trafficking. British detectives identified a UK-based criminal group in Spain responsible for transatlantic cocaine smuggling. The extensive investigation revealed maritime routes from Spanish coastal cities to South America, highlighting a sophisticated network.
Official statements
Neil Keeping, NCA’s regional director for Spain, stated, “This international operation led by Spain has dismantled a major drug trafficking group and resulted in the arrest of 10 British citizens: eight from England and two from Scotland.”
He added, “The NCA’s international network played a leading role in intelligence sharing with foreign partners to intercept large drug shipments and track key members of criminal enterprises. Tackling these global criminal groups requires strong cooperation with international partners. Our efforts continue to ensure these networks are dismantled.”