17 people suspected of belonging to a drug trafficking ring operating in the Algarve region and arrested on Wednesday in Sant Bras de Alportel have been held in custody, GNR reported this Saturday.
The security forces said in a statement that the detainees, 14 men and three women aged between 19 and 60, were present this Saturday in the court of Faro, against whom the most serious measure of coercion was applied.
According to the GNR, the suspects allegedly belonged to a drug trafficking network that was particularly active in the municipalities of Sant Bras de Alportel, Loulé, Faro, Olhão and Tavira, all in the district of Faro.
The arrests were made as a result of an investigation that lasted for about a year by the Criminal Investigation Department of Faro da Guarda.
At that time, two women, aged 44 and 55, were also accused of involvement in drug trafficking.
A total of 22 searches were conducted in homes, vehicles and commercial establishments during the operation.
As a result of the action, 9,667 doses of heroin, 7,632 doses of cocaine, 2,855 doses of hashish, 258 doses and 29 cannabis plants, six firearms, an air pistol and various items used in the preparation and packaging of drugs were seized.
A military aerosol, various computer and communication equipment, gold coins and more than 69,000 euros in cash were also seized.
Several GNR valences of Faro (Algarve) and Beja (Alentejo) territorial commands were involved in the police operation.
Elements of the Food and Economic Security Administration also participated in the operation.
Author: Portuguese
Source: CM Jornal
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