A major police operation in Spain has led to the dismantling of a criminal organization of Dutch people involved in the sale of sweets and snacks infused with synthetic drugs. The organization, based on the Costa del Sol, had built a complex infrastructure for the international distribution and laundering of the proceeds from these illegal activities.
The operation, carried out by the Spanish Policía Nacional and the Guardia Civil, resulted in the arrest of 15 suspects and the seizure of large quantities of narcotics and cash. The Dutch, who are seen as the masterminds behind this drug trade, have also been arrested.
The case came to light after Belgian police arrested a Dutchman with a shipment of 700 grams of synthetic cathinones (3MMC) at a parcel collection point. This information was shared with the Spanish authorities, after which an in-depth investigation was launched.
The first phase of the operation focused on identifying and locating the members of the criminal organization on the Costa del Sol. This led to seven searches in the towns of Fuengirola, Mijas, Estepona on the Costa del Sol and Maspalomas in the Canary Islands.
During the raids, 12,000 bags of sweets and snacks containing THC (the active substance in cannabis) were seized. 281 vape pens containing liquid cannabis extract and 49 packages containing various amounts of cocaine were also found. In addition to the drug supply, evidence was also found of an extensive network of sham companies set up to conceal the illegal activities.
The investigation revealed that the organization had established a widespread distribution network for the sale of the narcotics via the Internet. Drugs were packaged in candy and snacks for discreet shipping. Orders came in from all over Europe via an online sales platform, after which the products were sent by post to customers all over Europe.
Tags: Dutch people arrested Costa del Sol selling drug snacks internet
