Lisbon, Portugal – A narcosubmarine carrying 6.6 tons of cocaine was intercepted in the Atlantic Ocean, bound for the Iberian Peninsula. The operation marked a significant drug bust in open waters.

The Guardia Civil provided key information to Portuguese authorities, enabling the successful interception. This collaboration proved vital to the operation’s outcome.

Portugal’s Navy and Air Force detained five crew members aboard the semi-submersible vessel. Their swift action halted the drug trafficking attempt.

This is the first time a narcosubmarine has been stopped in the open sea. The event highlights a new challenge in combating drug smuggling.

The operation involved Spain’s Central Operative Unit (UCO) and CRAIN, working with Portugal’s Judicial Police, the UK’s NCA, and the US DEA. The Portuguese Navy and Air Force handled the location and boarding, supported by the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre (MAOC-N).

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