The Guardia Civil has dismantled a large cannabis-growing operation inside a house in San Miguel de Salinas and arrested three men aged 34, 53 and 57. The men are accused of drug trafficking, belonging to a criminal group and electricity theft.

The investigation began after the Equipo ROCA team in Torrevieja found a deposit of discarded cannabis plants in the area in March. Investigators traced the waste to a house believed to be linked to the operation and identified the people visiting it.

During a search supported by officers from Torrevieja, San Miguel de Salinas and Pilar de la Horadada, police found cannabis plants growing throughout both floors of the property, apart from the kitchen. Officers seized 262 large plants, which were close to harvest, as well as 12 air-conditioning units, 87 LED lights, 30 fans, seven extractors and eight air filters. Three mobile phones and €1,000 in cash were also taken.

A third suspect was later arrested in Guardamar del Segura. The three men appeared before the Torrevieja court and were released under precautionary measures. The operation has established the source of the discarded plants and disrupted the group’s activities.