The operation, known as Operation Centro, resulted in the seizure of 13 tons of the substance, marking the second-largest apprehension of its kind recorded in Europe. The intervention concluded with six arrests and six others under investigation for their alleged involvement in the network.
The investigation, coordinated by the Arona Court of Instance and the Anti-Drug Prosecutor's Office, included several searches in the municipality of Arona and two other locations on the island. During these actions, agents located over 10,000 canisters of nitrous oxide, as well as narcotics, cash, bladed weapons, and imitation firearms.
The Arona City Council confirmed that local officers actively collaborated in the searches and will be responsible for the custody and transport of the seized material for its subsequent destruction, once judicial authorization is granted.
The twelve individuals are accused of crimes including membership in a criminal organization, drug trafficking, money laundering, and trafficking of substances harmful to health. Authorities have stated that the investigation remains open and further actions in the archipelago are not ruled out.
