Spanish Police Dismantle Major Hashish Ring, Arrest Leader in Tangier

The Spanish National Police have dismantled a major hashish trafficking network, arresting its leader in Tangier and detaining 86 individuals across Spain. The operation resulted in the seizure of 10.8 tonnes of hashish and significant assets linked to money laundering.

The Operation

Launched in early 2025 by the UDYCO unit, the investigation targeted an organization importing thousands of kilograms of hashish monthly from Morocco via Spanish coastlines. The drugs were transported to Madrid for storage in residential "guarderies" before distribution throughout Europe Source: ABC. The crackdown involved raids in seven provinces, primarily Madrid (65 arrests), Guadalajara (10), and Valencia (5) Source: El Mundo. Eighteen detainees have been remanded into prison pending extradition proceedings for the leader Source: Euronews.

Leadership and Logistics

The ring’s leader, Juan Carlos T.B., alias 'Moreno', fled his luxury Madrid residence in March 2026 to evade arrest but was captured in Tangier on October 8 Source: ABC. He directed logistics, including maritime transport and vehicle acquisition Source: El Español. Investigators noted the group used encrypted messaging apps like Sky ECC to coordinate operations while maintaining a low profile on standard platforms Source: ABC.

Financial Crimes

A key figure in the financial apparatus was Juan Andrés González Santos, husband of former Miss Spain Verónica Hidalgo, known as 'Flaco' Source: ABC. He allegedly facilitated money laundering through his graphic design company, Artecar Soluciones Gráficas SL, issuing fraudulent payrolls to organization members since 2017 Source: ABC. Seized assets included 25 vehicles, luxury watches, and nearly €466,000 in cash Source: Infobae. While ABC highlights the specific involvement of Hidalgo’s husband, other outlets focus broadly on the use of shell companies and fake invoices for laundering Source: El Mundo.