The investigation, which began a year ago, identified a network illegally introducing firearms from the Western Balkans and Turkey into the European Union, where they were exchanged for narcotics. Of the 21 arrested, three were apprehended in Barcelona, four in Andalusia, and three in Sofia, Bulgaria, including the alleged leader of the organization, considered a high-value target by Europol.
During the 14 house searches conducted in Spain, 12 of which were in Catalonia and two in Barcelona, law enforcement seized over 500 kilograms of marijuana. Additionally, seven semi-automatic pistols, a weapon of war, silencers, and sound suppressors were confiscated, along with 587.56 kg of marijuana and 76.54 kg of hashish, valued at 4.4 million euros on the illicit market.
Some of the arrested individuals have a history of violent crimes in Turkey, which reinforces their 'highly violent' profile.
The Mossos d’Esquadra’s Criminal Investigation Division detected the entry of firearms from Turkey destined for local criminal groups in Catalonia last year, amidst a rise in armed violence. This discovery was the starting point for dismantling a structure specialized in the introduction, storage, and distribution of weaponry, as well as drug trafficking and money laundering.
