Italian police reported that the value of the seized cargo amounts to approximately 500 million euros. Authorities in Portugal, working in coordination with their Spanish and Italian counterparts, intercepted a vessel off the coast of Lisbon, located 90 kilometers southwest of Cape Espichel, according to Euronews. The interception involved a significant seizure of cocaine.
Authorities are issuing warnings regarding the increasing use of “fast gliders” by organized criminal groups. These vessels are described as high-speed craft featuring a rigid hull and inflatable sides, typically measuring between 10 and 16 meters in length. They are equipped with multiple powerful engines, enabling them to achieve speeds exceeding 70 knots.
Criminal organizations are reportedly utilizing these fast gliders to transport illicit cargo. The authorities suggest that the cocaine is often transferred from larger ships arriving from South America and then discarded overboard. The operational coordination between international law enforcement agencies was critical in the recent interception, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking through maritime routes.
The seizure underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in monitoring international waters for illegal shipments.
Topics: #authorities #cocaine #seized
