Portuguese Police Seize Over 2.6 Tons of Cocaine in Atlantic

Portuguese authorities have intercepted a significant drug smuggling operation in the Atlantic Ocean, seizing more than 2.6 tons of cocaine. The estimated value of the confiscated drugs is approximately 500 million euros. The operation, a collaborative effort between Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian law enforcement, was coordinated by the Italian Public Prosecutor's Office in Brescia.

The cocaine was discovered aboard an "ultra-fast ocean rigid inflatable boat." According to Italy's Guardia di Finanza, such vessels are typically used by smugglers to collect illicit cargo dropped into the sea by larger ships originating from South America. The police statement highlighted the substantial potential profit, noting that while the wholesale value of the cocaine is around 78 million euros, its retail value upon delivery and dilution could reach up to 500 million euros.

During the operation, four individuals were apprehended on the boat. They have been identified as two Spanish nationals, one resident of Gibraltar, and an Albanian national living in Italy. The successful seizure and arrests underscore the ongoing international cooperation required to combat drug trafficking networks operating across maritime borders.

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The wholesale value of the cocaine is estimated at approximately 78 million euros. Upon delivery to the destination and dilution for retail sale, these narcotics could generate total profits of approximately 500 million euros.