Spanish police announced Wednesday that they had intercepted 13 tonnes of cocaine, the largest-ever drug haul in the country's history, during a major operation at the southern port of Algeciras.
The shipment, which arrived on October 14 from Ecuador's port city of Guayaquil, was concealed inside banana crates on a container ship.
The cocaine, hidden in identically designed boxes, was flagged thanks to intelligence gathered from Ecuadorian authorities, who had tipped off Spanish law enforcement. The shipment was bound for Europe, a primary entry point for illicit drugs due to Spain's historical ties to Latin America.
A woman, believed to be a partner of the importing company, was arrested in the central city of Toledo in connection with the operation. Police are still pursuing two other suspects who remain at large.
Spain's strategic location, with its close ties to Latin America and proximity to Morocco, makes it a key entry point for narcotics entering Europe. This record bust underscores ongoing efforts by both Spanish and international authorities to combat drug trafficking in the region.
