PORTUGUESE AUTHORITIES SEIZE 1.6 TONS OF COCAINE, ARREST THREE ON SAILBOAT

Lisbon, Portugal – The Portuguese Navy, in collaboration with the Judicial Police (PJ), has seized 1,660 kilograms (approximately 1.6 tons) of cocaine aboard an 11-meter sailboat. The vessel was intercepted southwest of the Azores Islands in the Atlantic Ocean.

The illicit cargo, originating from Latin America and destined for Europe, boasts a high purity level and has an estimated street value of €60 million.

"Operation Vikings" Leads to Multiple Arrests

During "Operation Vikings," three foreign nationals, aged between 43 and 51, were arrested. These individuals—one British and two Danish citizens—are currently in pre-trial detention pending further investigation. According to the Public Prosecutor's Office, the men have prior records for drug trafficking and are "accused of committing aggravated international drug trafficking and criminal association offenses."

The Prosecutor's Office stated that the group is "a criminal organization dedicated to the maritime transport of large quantities of cocaine from South America/Caribbean America to introduce it into Europe via Portugal." More than 50 Navy personnel intercepted the vessel approximately 2,600 kilometers from Lisbon in an operation that spanned over 200 hours.

Alleged Leader Apprehended in Spain

In a separate but related operation, Spanish authorities have arrested another Northern European citizen, believed to be the leader of the criminal organization.

This extensive operation was conducted with the assistance of the DEA (U.S. federal agency responsible for combating drug trafficking) and police forces from Denmark, France, and Ireland.

A recent report from the European Union Drugs Agency revealed that cocaine seizures in Europe reached a record high in 2023 for the seventh consecutive year, with 419 tons confiscated by authorities. Belgium led the seizures with 123 tons, followed by Spain (118 tons) and the Netherlands (59 tons). These three countries, with major ports and transportation hubs, accounted for 72% of all seizures.