Spanish authorities have intercepted a freighter in international waters, seizing an estimated 30,000 to 45,000kg of cocaine in what is being described as a national record. The vessel was intercepted off Spain’s Canary Islands on Friday, leading to the arrest of approximately 20 individuals. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska characterized the operation as one of the largest seizures both nationally and internationally, dealing a “historic blow” to global drug trafficking networks.

The freighter originated from Sierra Leone and was officially destined for Libya. However, investigators believe the cargo was intended to be offloaded onto smaller vessels for final distribution across Europe, following a common smuggling pattern. While the Civil Guard has declined to provide specific details regarding the ongoing investigation for legal reasons, they shared images on social media showing the illicit substances packed into the hold of the intercepted ship.

This massive operation significantly surpasses previous records, including a major seizure in January when authorities confiscated nearly 10 tonnes of cocaine at sea. The AUGC, the main union for the Civil Guard, hailed the event as a landmark moment for their Maritime Service. This latest discovery underscores the intensified efforts by Spanish law enforcement to disrupt major maritime drug corridors in the Atlantic.

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