A recent video posted on Instagram by user Kellen_itt has gained significant traction, being shared across numerous profiles on various platforms, including media outlets from Morocco. This captivating footage depicts a high-speed chase involving a drug smuggling boat, known as a narcolancha, being pursued by the Moroccan Royal Navy in the bustling Strait of Gibraltar—a notorious hotspot for drug trafficking attempts, which are also being combated by the Civil Guard in Ceuta.
The video captures the thrilling chase as the videographer navigates through the Strait, initially showcasing the rapid movement of the narcolancha followed closely by the Moroccan Navy's unit, which remains hot on its trail. This firsthand account provides an exhilarating glimpse into the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in this critical maritime corridor.
The presence of narcolanchas in the Strait is alarmingly frequent, with associated crimes, including thefts of these vessels. Just recently, the Navy experienced a significant incident involving the theft of one such boat during the FLOTEX-26 exercise, which led to considerable embarrassment for the military. The Civil Guard managed to recover the stolen vessel, but the incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in this region.
According to the National Security Department's (DSN) report, there are over 600 go-fast narcolanchas suspected of engaging in drug trafficking operations, primarily in the Strait of Gibraltar, which also impacts Ceuta. The report emphasizes the increasing aggression displayed by traffickers towards law enforcement agents, including the use of military-grade weapons. Moreover, the DSN notes that while maritime routes predominantly facilitate the transport of narcotics, there has been a significant surge in the quantity of hashish being smuggled overland in trucks, a trend that was identified in 2023 and continues to rise, with established routes from Almería, Granada, and Cádiz extending into France and further into Europe.
As reported by elfarodeceuta.es.
