Major Drug Smuggling Operation in the Canary Islands Ends with 10 Arrests and 400kg Hashish Seizure
Major Police Operation Targets Drug Trafficking in the Canary Islands
A large-scale law enforcement operation in the Canary Islands has led to the arrest of 10 suspected members of an organised drug trafficking network after officers intercepted an attempted landing of approximately 400 kilograms of hashish on the coast of Gran Canaria.
The operation, codenamed “Operation Babayaga,” was carried out jointly by the National Police, Guardia Civil, and the Canary Islands Customs Surveillance Service (DAVA). Authorities say the coordinated investigation prevented a significant quantity of illegal drugs from entering the islands.
Investigation Began Weeks Earlier
According to investigators, the operation was the result of intelligence gathered at the beginning of July, when several specialist units independently received information suggesting that the coastline around Castillo del Romeral, in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, was being used as a landing point for drug shipments.
After comparing intelligence, the agencies launched a coordinated investigation aimed at identifying those responsible and preventing further shipments from reaching the Canary Islands.
Night-Time Interception at the Fishing Harbour
During the evening of 11 August, officers monitoring the area observed unusual activity around the fishing harbour, including several vehicles believed to be waiting for an incoming vessel.
Shortly before midnight, a semi-rigid speedboat arrived at the dock. Investigators say several individuals immediately began unloading wrapped packages and transferring them into waiting vehicles before officers moved in to make arrests.
Tense Moments During the Arrests
Police reported that the operation became tense when several explosions or detonations occurred during the intervention. Officers responded by identifying themselves and firing warning shots to bring the situation under control.
No injuries were reported during the incident. Some suspects surrendered immediately, while others attempted to flee before being detained. In total, 10 people were arrested, and approximately 400kg of hashish was seized before it could be distributed.
Ongoing Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking
Spanish authorities say the investigation remains active as they continue efforts to dismantle organised criminal groups using the Canary Islands as a transit point for narcotics.
Officials believe the drugs were intended either for distribution across the Canary Islands or for onward transport to mainland Spain. The operation forms part of a wider strategy to disrupt organised crime and strengthen security around the archipelago’s coastline.
For both residents and the millions of visitors who holiday in the Canary Islands each year, operations like this demonstrate the ongoing work being carried out to intercept illegal drug shipments before they reach local communities.
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