The Spanish Civil Guard in Almería has announced the dismantling of a large-scale transnational criminal organization. Dubbed Operation Anisakis , the investigation uncovered a sophisticated logistical network linking Morocco to Belgium, via Spain and France.

A legal cover for illicit trafficking

To transport the drugs, the traffickers used a daring strategy: they operated a perfectly legal bus company . Shipments of hashish were concealed in false bottoms built into the passenger coaches' refrigeration systems. This method allowed the network to cross European borders while minimizing the risks during customs checks.

The outcome of the operation

The operation, the result of close collaboration between the Spanish police and the Moroccan authorities, yielded conclusive results:

1. Arrests: 5 people arrested in Almería, Roquetas de Mar, Vícar and Melilla.
2. Material seizures: 140 kg of hashish, 15 vehicles and advanced technological equipment.
3. Financial seizures: More than 130,000 euros in cash were found during the 8 searches carried out.

A colossal financial component

Beyond drug trafficking, the investigation uncovered a complex money laundering operation. Authorities carried out massive preventative seizures, with estimated economic losses of €2.8 million , including:

1. 19 bank accounts frozen.
2. 50 additional vehicles seized.
3. 28 properties are frozen.

A leading thinker based in France

The alleged mastermind of the organization was located in northeastern France , near the Belgian border. From this strategic position, he oversaw all operations, received drug shipments upon their arrival on European soil, and organized their final distribution to the Belgian market.