Two men have been arrested and a third placed under investigation over alleged drug trafficking at a cannabis association in Orihuela Costa.

The Guardia Civil said the premises appeared to operate as a legal association but was in fact acting as a point of sale for illegal drugs. The investigation began in February, when the ROCA team in Torrevieja detected suspected irregularities while carrying out a wider operation against the cultivation and trafficking of marijuana.

Officers analysed the association’s public documents and set up surveillance with patrols from Pilar de la Horadada. During the operation, they identified customers allegedly buying drugs, as well as members of staff.

A search of the premises on 26 February led to the seizure of 146 grammes of hashish, 230 grammes of marijuana, 1,042 euros in cash, precision scales and electronic equipment. The two detainees, aged 32 and 34, and a 37-year-old man under investigation, have been accused of offences against public health and membership of a criminal group. A judge has released them with precautionary measures, and officers have requested the closure of the premises.