Major Drug Bust: Portuguese Police Intercept Submarine Loaded with Cocaine Near Azores

Cocaine Submarine Intercepted

The Judicial Police (PJ) has successfully intercepted a submarine carrying approximately 6.5 tons of cocaine in international waters, about 500 nautical miles from the Azores. This operation, detailed in a press release issued on Tuesday, has led to the arrest of the five occupants aboard the so-called "narcosubmarine"—three Brazilians, one Spaniard, and one Colombian.

Destination: Iberian Peninsula

The submarine was reportedly heading towards the Iberian Peninsula, where the illicit cargo was intended for distribution across the European market, as reported by SIC. The arrested individuals have been taken aboard a Navy vessel to Ponta Delgada, with plans to transfer them to Lisbon for judicial proceedings.

Video Evidence Released

A video released by the PJ shows a Portuguese ship approaching the submarine during the interception.

Significant Operation Details

During a press conference, images and further details about the operation were disclosed. Luís Neves, the PJ director, emphasized that this semi-submersible is the first to be seized in open ocean. He noted the importance of international cooperation with the Navy and Air Force of Portugal, stating that the collaboration was essential in delivering a significant blow to a powerful organization that aimed to "flood Europe with cocaine".

International Collaboration

A representative from the Spanish Guardia Civil was also present, confirming that this operation represents a serious setback for a criminal organization. The operation, named "Nautilus", is a joint effort involving the PJ, the Navy, the Air Force, the Spanish Guardia Civil, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the UK's National Crime Agency. The investigation is being led by the PJ’s National Unit for Combating Drug Trafficking.