Gibraltar divers find cocaine stashed on cargo ship

In a significant drug bust, Gibraltar customs officers uncovered a staggering 120 kilograms of narcotics concealed within the hull of a cargo ship. The Panama-flagged vessel, M/V Great Zhou, was intercepted during a refueling stop in Gibraltar earlier this week, prompting a thorough investigation by authorities. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.

Underwater Discovery Unveils Trafficking Operation

On April 30, customs officials from the Marine Section conducted a detailed search of the M/V Great Zhou after its arrival from Santos, Brazil. Utilizing a newly acquired underwater drone, officers discovered four suspicious packages hidden in a ‘sea chest’—an underwater compartment designed for seawater intake for the ship’s cooling systems. This strategic hiding spot allowed the drugs to evade routine inspections, showcasing the lengths traffickers will go to conceal their illicit cargo.

After the discovery, customs officials interviewed all crew members and conducted a comprehensive inspection of the vessel. Despite the significant find, the ship was released, and investigations are ongoing to determine the broader implications of this trafficking operation. Authorities believe the drugs were not intended for Gibraltar, as the vessel promptly continued its journey to Savona, Italy, the following day.

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The search for additional evidence continued into the early hours of Thursday morning, culminating in the transfer of the seized drugs to customs aboard HMC Sentinel. Collector of Customs John Payas commended his team’s efforts and the effectiveness of the underwater drone, which was only purchased in December 2024. The Gibraltar Port Authority also received praise for its coordination during the operation.

Government Officials React to Successful Operation

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo KC MP expressed his gratitude to HM Customs for their successful operation, emphasizing the importance of Gibraltar in the international fight against drug trafficking. He stated, “Congratulations to HM Customs for another successful operation, reminding organized crime groups that Gibraltar plays an important part in the international fight against drug trafficking.” This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by customs and law enforcement agencies in combating drug smuggling and organized crime in the region.

As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to disrupt trafficking networks and ensure the safety and security of Gibraltar’s waters.