Ceuta Drug Tunnels Uncovered: Underground Routes for Hashish Trafficking

The discovery of a second drug tunnel in Ceuta, designed to introduce hashish from Morocco, demonstrates the constant evolution of smuggling tactics. The structure, described as “complex” and “labyrinthine” by the authorities, was hidden behind a soundproof refrigerator in an industrial warehouse.

The drug operation has resulted in 20 arrests in the autonomous city and dozens more in other parts of the country. This discovery underlines the increasing pressure on one of Europe's most sensitive borders, where criminal organizations are constantly seeking new ways to evade police controls.

The tunnel, which included rails, wagons, and pulley systems, represents a sophisticated underground logistics chain for the transport and storage of drugs. The National Police plans to request the collaboration of Morocco to determine the exact route of the gallery, which could extend beyond the border fence.

The tunnel's structure was deployed on three levels: a descent shaft, an intermediate chamber to store hashish bales, and a gallery that headed towards Morocco. This system allowed for the organized transport and underground storage of the drug before its distribution.

Investigators have described the tunnel as an authentic underground logistics chain, revealing the sophistication of drug trafficking operations in the area.

The use of tunnels in international drug trafficking is not new, but its appearance in Ceuta marks a turning point. Until now, organizations had mainly resorted to large vehicles or maritime routes.

The first drug tunnel was discovered on February 19, 2025, by the Civil Guard, within the framework of the Hades operation. This finding, at least 50 meters long and with sections barely 40 centimeters wide, already pointed to the use of the subsoil for smuggling.

The Hades operation resulted in 14 arrests and the seizure of more than 6,000 kilos of hashish. The new discovery, a short distance from the previous one, confirms the trend of criminal organizations to use underground infrastructures for drug trafficking.

The dismantled organization operated with "continuous shipments" of hashish from Morocco to Spain and France.

Part of the tunnel's infrastructure was flooded, forcing firefighters to intervene to facilitate access. In addition, the authorities are seeking to determine the exact route of the gallery, which could extend beyond the border.

The warehouse where the tunnel was located, along with two adjacent ones, remains sealed. Investigators have not yet identified the owner of the property.

This new discovery represents a hard blow to international drug trafficking, dismantling a complex network that used Ceuta as an entry point for hashish.

For years, hashish trafficking has sought discreet routes to evade police pressure. Speedboats and hidden compartments in vehicles are common methods.

This discovery highlights the need for stronger international cooperation and the use of advanced technologies to combat drug trafficking. The investigation continues to completely dismantle the network and bring those responsible to justice.