The three seemingly harmless paintings concealed the drug within a novel chemical composition based on cocaine mixed with a thick layer of high-hardness synthetic resin, known as 'epoxy'. This method ensured the substance, which was black and granular, did not react to conventional detection reagents at the airport customs.
The sequence of events began at Terminal 1 of El Prat during a routine passenger check. National Police agents grew suspicious of a traveler carrying the paintings due to their disproportionate weight and the “inconsistent answers” he provided regarding the purpose of his trip.
The cocaine did not show the characteristic white color or odor of the alkaloid; instead, the substance was black and had a very fine granular texture.
Although rapid tests were negative, the investigators' experience was crucial. They seized the paintings and informed the passenger of his rights, releasing him pending more thorough analysis. The next day, the Institute of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences of Barcelona confirmed the presence of the 15 kilograms of drugs.
Following the confirmation, an urgent operation was launched. The individual was located and arrested at 12:55 PM the same day at Madrid-Barajas Airport, just as he was attempting to board a flight bound for Colombia. This operation highlights the increasing sophistication of international drug trafficking networks.
