les Palmes, Spain - August 07, 2024

Spanish authorities, in collaboration with the Tax Agency's Customs Surveillance Service, have intercepted 289 kilograms of cocaine concealed within the refrigeration system of a merchant ship arriving from Brazil. This operation, dubbed "Pride South," unfolded as suspicions arose regarding the vessel's potential involvement in drug trafficking to Europe.

Upon the ship's arrival at the Port of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, subsequent inspections revealed twelve watertight sacks hidden discreetly and secured with ropes to the hull's grilles. Underwater inspection confirmed their presence, leading to their retrieval.

Following the seizure, a narcotics test confirmed the contents as cocaine, totaling 289 kilograms packaged in numerous parcels. This interception underscores ongoing efforts to monitor and thwart new smuggling routes and concealment methods employed by criminal organizations transporting cocaine from South America to Europe.

The estimated street value of the seized cocaine amounts to approximately $8.7 million USD, highlighting the substantial impact of such interceptions on international drug trafficking operations.