International operation disrupts Albanian cocaine trafficking network

A major international law enforcement operation, known as ‘Operation Mondragón’, has dismantled a sophisticated cocaine trafficking network spanning Ecuador, Spain, and Dubai. Authorities seized over 21 tons of cocaine across Ecuador, Brazil, and Spain, resulting in the arrest of 44 individuals.

Investigators identified a criminal structure involving Albanian groups that established a base in Ecuador to facilitate drug shipments to Europe. These groups utilized export companies, particularly in the banana industry, to hide cocaine within legitimate cargo destined for Spanish ports such as Valencia, Malaga, and Algeciras. The network reportedly operated on three levels: cocaine originated in Ecuador, Spain served as the primary entry point into Europe, and investors in Dubai provided financing and laundered proceeds through Spanish companies.

In Spain, two businessmen from Arnedo are under investigation for allegedly managing a dozen companies used as covers for the illicit activity. During a search of one suspect's residence, agents discovered approximately one million euros in cash hidden in shoeboxes. The expansion of these networks is attributed to institutional corruption in South America, the dollarized economy, and a massive increase in global cocaine production and European demand.