Spanish police have uncovered a multi-level underground tunnel, equipped with rails and trolleys, used to smuggle cannabis from Morocco into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta, according to a statement released Tuesday by the Spanish Interior Ministry. The ministry emphasized that the large-scale operation, which spanned more than a year, led to the discovery of a “mine-like maze” used to supply Spain and the rest of Europe with cannabis.
The crackdown resulted in the arrest of 27 individuals and the seizure of over 17 tons of drugs across a series of coordinated operations.
The statement noted that the tunnel entrance was camouflaged behind a large, soundproofed refrigerator. The structure extended over three levels, including a descent shaft, a shipment storage chamber, and a straight corridor leading toward Morocco.
Reaching a depth of 19 meters, the tunnel featured rails, trolleys, and small hoists to transport drug loads. It was constructed beneath an industrial warehouse and equipped with water-pumping and soundproofing systems that allowed the infrastructure to operate without arousing suspicion.
Investigators have yet to determine the tunnel’s full length as sections remain flooded, Antonio Martinez, the official leading the operation, told a press conference. He noted that the passage, measuring approximately 1.2 meters high and 80 centimeters wide, was “highly developed” and “well-equipped” by an “extremely powerful organization.” Martinez added that a series of narcotics seizures in Ceuta and Andalusia (southern Spain) led investigators to this major criminal network, which also operated in Galicia (northern Spain).
The operation concluded with the detention of one of the network’s leaders on March 26. During the searches, authorities uncovered 1.4 million euros in cash and 17 luxury vehicles.
Spain remains a primary gateway for drug trafficking into Europe due to its proximity to Morocco, one of the world’s largest cannabis producers.
