Ibiza Drug Trafficking Gang Dismantled: Massive Drug Seizure and Arrests
A Violent Operation Unveiled
In a dramatic turn of events, an operation by the Civil Guard and the National Police has led to the dismantling of a violent and active drug trafficking gang operating in Ibiza and Madrid. This criminal organization, known for its brutality, came under intense scrutiny after a shooting incident in Sant Jordi on Gordo’s day, a Christmas tradition in Ibiza. The repercussions of this operation have sent shockwaves through the criminal underworld.
The Shooting Incident
The operation traces its origins back to a chilling incident that occurred on December 22nd, a night when many were celebrating Christmas Fat Draw day. In Sant Jordi, a young man opened fire on a father and his son from a Volkswagen Golf. Remarkably, the victims, both Argentine nationals aged 66 and 24, escaped with minor injuries. The assailant, a young Dominican man, managed to evade capture initially but was apprehended days later in Madrid. Upon searching his residence, authorities discovered nearly a kilogram of cocaine.
The Operation ‘Manguza’
Subsequent investigations by the Civil Guard and the National Police revealed connections that led to Operation ‘Manguza’. This large-scale operation culminated in a massive drug bust, resulting in the seizure of various narcotics, firearms, and a significant sum of money.
The seized narcotics include five kilograms of MDMA, over four kilograms of cocaine, two kilograms of ketamine, 750 ecstasy pills, three kilograms of marijuana, 400 grams of 2CB, and 300 doses of LSD. The operation also led to the confiscation of four firearms, four magazines, approximately 200 cartridges, and 60,000 euros in cash.
A Coordinated Strike
After months of meticulous investigation, law enforcement agencies executed a coordinated strike against the drug trafficking organization, resulting in a total of 27 arrests—24 in Ibiza and three in Madrid. Ten of the detainees were remanded in custody on charges ranging from drug trafficking and association with a criminal group to money laundering, illegal possession of firearms, identity theft, and robbery with force.
The Civil Guard’s Organized Crime Prevention Unit (OPC) described the dismantled criminal group as “very violent” and highly organized.
Swift and Decisive Action
The culmination of Operation ‘Manguza’ saw the activation of elite units, including the Rapid Action Group (GAR), the Reserve and Security Group (GRS), USECIC troops, and canine units. These units executed a series of early morning raids across Ibiza and Madrid, targeting various locations connected to the criminal organization.
The Drug Trafficking Network
The core focus of the investigation was a network dedicated to the introduction and distribution of drugs in Ibiza, with ties to the Spanish capital. The organization primarily comprised Spanish and South American individuals. Their modus operandi involved concealing narcotics within vehicles, making it challenging for law enforcement to intercept their shipments.
Violent Tactics
The arrest operation emphasized the gang’s proclivity for violence, including the use of firearms to enforce debt collection, even against their own members.
Operation ‘Manguza’ serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in regions like Ibiza, where criminal organizations operate with audacity. The successful dismantling of this gang is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of law enforcement agencies in combating organized crime and ensuring the safety of the community.
As the operation concludes, Ibiza and Madrid breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that a significant blow has been dealt to a violent drug trafficking network that once thrived in the shadows. The impact of this operation reverberates beyond the arrests and seizures, sending a resounding message that law and order will always prevail.
