14 arrested as GNR dismantles alleged drug trafficking network in Alentejo

Fourteen people have been arrested following a major GNR operation that dismantled an alleged drug trafficking network operating in the Alentejo.

The operation, carried out on Thursday by the GNR’s Criminal Investigation Unit in Aljustrel, targeted suspects in the municipalities of Aljustrel and Ferreira do Alentejo, in the district of Beja.

According to the GNR, the investigation had been underway for around six months and focused on suspected drug trafficking, criminal association and illegal weapons possession.

A total of 162 officers from several GNR units across the country took part in the operation, which involved 13 arrest warrants and 26 search warrants, including 16 residential searches.

The force said it “identified and dismantled” a criminal network allegedly involved in the sale and distribution of drugs in the region.

Those arrested include 12 men and two women aged between 18 and 53. A further three suspects – two men and one woman aged between 20 and 25 – were formally named as suspects as part of the investigation.

During the searches, officers seized 106 doses of cocaine, 10 of hashish and ecstasy pills, along with four vehicles, two firearms, ammunition and several bladed weapons.

The operation also resulted in the seizure of precision scales, mobile phones, cash and other material allegedly linked to drug distribution activities.

All 14 detainees were due to appear before the Judicial Court of Ourique on Friday, where a judge will decide what coercive measures will be imposed while the investigation continues.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.