Spanish Police Seize 6.5 Tons Cocaine from Tanzanian-Flagged Ship off Canary Islands

Spanish authorities, supported by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), intercepted a merchant vessel carrying approximately 6.5 tons of cocaine off the Canary Islands. The Tanzanian-flagged cargo ship had departed from Panama en route to Vigo, Spain, and concealed the drugs in modified compartments within the hold. Nine crew members were arrested during the maritime operation, which was coordinated following intelligence shared by the DEA. This seizure is one of the largest drug busts in Spanish waters this year and highlights Spain's role as a key entry point for South American cocaine into Europe due to its geographic and trade connections. Spanish police have recently conducted similar large-scale operations, including a record 13-ton seizure in Algeciras last year. Authorities continue to dismantle international drug trafficking rings using various maritime routes, with recent global seizures reported by other countries as well.