Spain Seizes 20 Tons Cannabis Hidden in Pepper Shipments Arrests 20

Spanish National Police, in collaboration with Moroccan authorities, seized 20 tons of cannabis resin hidden in refrigerated trucks carrying green peppers from Morocco to Spain, specifically through the port of Algeciras. The operation involved intercepting two trucks in southern Spain, one in Cádiz carrying 12 tons and another in Granada carrying 8 tons, both concealed in double compartments behind pepper crates. Authorities arrested 20 individuals linked to two criminal networks involved in international drug trafficking and organized crime. Investigators also seized nine vehicles, an automatic firearm, and over 7,000 euros in cash, noting that traffickers used lookout vehicles to evade police and packaged some drugs in colorful wrappers resembling candy to attract younger consumers. Spain serves as a major entry point for drugs into Europe due to its proximity to Morocco, a key producer of cannabis resin (hashish), and its historic ties with Latin America, a major cocaine source. This significant drug bust reflects ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking across European borders.