Increasing police pressure on drug-trafficking networks along the coast of Cádiz is forcing suppliers for the speedboats operating in the Strait of Gibraltar to refine their methods. The latest operation by the National Police in Sanlúcar de Barrameda has uncovered a commercial van equipped with a sophisticated double bottom, capable of carrying over 2,500 liters of fuel.

Investigators indicate that continuous seizures have led those known as 'petaqueros' to develop more elaborate concealment systems. They are no longer limited to visibly transporting canisters; they now resort to hidden compartments and discreet vehicles to move large quantities of gasoline, allegedly intended for boats used in drug trafficking.

The operation began when officers observed the van refueling at a gas station. The driver, upon noticing the police presence, initiated a reckless high-speed chase, endangering other road users. Although he initially escaped after abandoning the vehicle, the Police seized the van and discovered the complex system for hiding and rapidly extracting fuel.

Subsequent investigations led to the identification and arrest of the driver, an individual with previous arrests for his alleged involvement in supplying fuel to drug-trafficking networks. The National Police have warned of the severe danger posed by this clandestine transport, highlighting the high risk of explosion and harm to third parties due to modifications made without authorized safety measures.

The operation was carried out by officers from the Citizen Security and Judicial Police Brigades of the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Police Station. The detainee has been brought before the Court of First Instance and Instruction number 3 of the town, which has ordered his provisional imprisonment.