Seven people have been arrested in Elche after National Police officers and Customs Surveillance officials from the Tax Agency dismantled a suspected drug trafficking organisation.

Five men and two women, aged between 36 and 42, are accused of drug trafficking, illegal possession of weapons and belonging to a criminal group. Five of those detained have been remanded in custody by a court.

The investigation began with the arrest of one alleged member found with 200 grams of cocaine. A second suspect was later detained while transporting 3.5 kilos of cocaine hidden in false compartments inside his vehicle and concealed in powdered milk and ground coffee packets.

During raids carried out in Elche, officers seized 17 kilos of vacuum-packed marijuana, 110 grams of cocaine, 260 marijuana plants, a firearm with ammunition, €78,240 in cash, jewellery, five precision scales and seven vehicles, some fitted with hidden compartments. Authorities have also requested the freezing of property, vehicles and bank assets linked to the group.