Spanish authorities have arrested three individuals suspected of retrieving packages of cocaine hidden in the seawater tank of a commercial vessel off the coast of Las Palmas.

This case is the latest in a series of drug enforcement operations in and around the Canary Islands, a region frequently used as a transshipment hub for cocaine trafficked from South America to Europe.

According to reports, the Spanish Guardia Civil suspected a port supply vessel—normally used to deliver provisions to anchored ships near Las Palmas—of involvement in illicit activities. During an inspection, officers discovered a large suitcase containing multiple packages of cocaine. A further search of the vessel revealed diving equipment, which is often used in smuggling operations that involve accessing a ship's submerged compartments. All three crew members aboard the supply vessel were taken into custody.

Following the discovery, a specialized unit of the Guardia Civil conducted an inspection of a nearby commercial vessel, where the supply ship’s crew was believed to have retrieved the narcotics. A diving team located an additional black-wrapped package of cocaine hidden in the ship's seawater tank.

In total, authorities seized 72 kilograms of cocaine, with an estimated street value exceeding $2.5 million. The suspects and the seized narcotics were handed over to the criminal court in Las Palmas for prosecution.

Last month, authorities in the Canary Islands conducted a series of raids, seizing four tons of cocaine, $114,000 in cash, and arresting 48 individuals. According to Spanish police, the smuggling network used 11 speedboats to collect cocaine from vessels at sea and transport it to the islands. The group reportedly relied on a sophisticated communication system involving encryption, coded language, and satellite terminals.

Background:

Las Palmas is a major port city and the capital of the Canary Islands' Gran Canaria island. Home to the busy Puerto de la Luz and an international airport, it is a key hub for maritime traffic on Atlantic routes.