Authorities have carried out a major operation in Alicante, dismantling a criminal organization operating on the coast. This network, comprised mostly of citizens of Algerian origin, also enjoyed the support of Spaniards. It was dedicated to transporting narcotics, primarily cocaine and synthetic drugs, from the Alicante coast to Algeria, returning with illegal migrants on board.

The investigation began in 2025, after the Customs Surveillance Service aircraft spotted a suspicious vessel. Collaboration between the Tax Agency and the National Police confirmed the existence of this organization, which used speedboats, known as “narcolanchas,” to carry out its criminal activities.

During the operations, marinas were identified as key points for the logistics of these activities, where the boats were stored and maintained. During the deployment, several boats were located and the main members of the organization were identified. They charged between six thousand and ten thousand euros for each migrant transported.

The final phase of the operation culminated in the arrest of several members of the organization, including its leader, and the seizure of two semi-rigid boats, vehicles, large quantities of gasoline, and cell phones. This investigation is still ongoing, and more arrests could occur in the future.