Narco Drones: Spain’s Fight Against High-Tech Smuggling
Spanish authorities dismantle a drug-smuggling ring using Ukrainian ‘narco drones’ to transport hashish across the Gibraltar Strait.
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Spain Busts High-Tech Drug Smuggling Ring Using Ukrainian ‘Narco Drones’
Spanish authorities have successfully dismantled a sophisticated criminal network leveraging
advanced drone technology to smuggle hashish across the Gibraltar Strait. The operation, aptly
named “Operación Ciclón”, exposed how drones manufactured in Ukraine were being
repurposed as tools for high-stakes drug trafficking.
These drones, equipped to carry up to 10 kilograms of illicit cargo per flight, facilitated the transport of drugs over the challenging 14.4-kilometer stretch separating Morocco and Spain. Authorities estimate the group attempted to smuggle nearly a metric ton of hashish into Spain, demonstrating the scale of their operations.
A Criminal Alliance
The network was an intricate collaboration of Eastern European operators and local Spanish criminals based in the Campo de Gibraltar and Costa del Sol regions. This cross-border syndicate showcased a new level of innovation in smuggling methods, blending international expertise with local knowledge to evade law enforcement.
The Raid and Seizures
During six coordinated raids, police arrested ten individuals, seven of whom are now facing prison sentences. Alongside the arrests, authorities confiscated three high-capacity drones, various illegal materials, and equipment suspected of aiding the operations. These findings underscore the criminal group’s meticulous planning and reliance on technology.
Implications and Ongoing Threats
The case highlights the growing challenges authorities face as technology becomes more accessible to criminal organizations. The use of drones in illegal activities is not only a testament to their versatility but also a warning about the need for more robust international collaboration and advanced countermeasures.
