Europe‑targeted cocaine seizures: 1.08 tonnes in Ecuador bound for UK, 18 kg in Spain

Ecuadorian authorities seized 1.08 tonnes of cocaine concealed in fruit export boxes at the port of Machala. The shipment was headed for the United Kingdom, and officials said the bust prevented the drugs from reaching international markets and hit the finances of organized crime groups.

In Spain, a 60‑year‑old man was arrested after investigators discovered 18 kg of high‑purity cocaine hidden in the undercarriage of his vehicle at Palma de Mallorca port. The court is seeking an eight‑year prison term and a €4 million fine. The case also involved 1.9 kg of hashish valued at about €13,000.

Both operations illustrate ongoing interdiction efforts against cocaine trafficking routes aimed at European consumer markets.