Spanish Authorities Seize 20 Tonnes of Cannabis Hidden in Moroccan Pepper Shipments

Spanish authorities have intercepted a significant drug smuggling operation, confiscating 20 tonnes of cannabis concealed within refrigerated trucks transporting peppers from Morocco.

On October 21, police officers in the southern province of Cadiz stopped a truck and discovered 12 tonnes of cannabis resin hidden in false compartments behind boxes of green peppers, according to a statement from Spain's National Police.

A second vehicle carrying an additional 8 tonnes of the drug was intercepted near Granada just three days later. Both trucks had entered Spain through the port of Algeciras after departing from Tangier.

The operation resulted in the arrest of twenty individuals who have been jailed on charges related to drug trafficking and organized crime.

Investigators revealed that the traffickers employed lookout vehicles to avoid detection by law enforcement. Some of the seized cannabis was packaged in candy-like wrappers that authorities believe were "aimed at attracting younger consumers."

During the operation, which was conducted in collaboration with Moroccan police, authorities also seized nine vehicles, an automatic pistol, and more than 7,000 euros ($8,100) in cash.

Spain serves as a major gateway for drugs entering Europe due to its geographical proximity to Morocco and its established connections with Latin America. Morocco is a primary source for hashish, a type of cannabis resin, while Latin America remains the main origin for cocaine entering European markets.