A narco-boat collided with a Civil Guard patrol boat in La Línea de la Concepción (Cádiz) causing damage to the rear of the vessel. The incident occurred when the agents were trying to disperse a group of 11 semi-rigid boats sheltered in an area of the sea off the coast of Manilva (Málaga). According to reports, one of the narcotic traffickers’ boats attempted to board the patrol boat while the others fled, resulting in a collision near La Alcaidesa beach. The incident only caused minor damage to the patrol boat’s stern.
The intervention by the Civil Guard came after the mayor of Manilva, José Manuel Fernández, alerted authorities about the presence of the narco-boats near the Sabinillas beach. Due to a lack of resources, the authorities were unable to respond until the next day, when a patrol boat from the Maritime Service of Algeciras managed to disperse some of the boats. The collision occurred when one of the narcotic boats experienced mechanical issues and was unable to escape. Several other boats attempted to protect it, resulting in the collision with the Civil Guard boat.
The incident did not result in any injuries to the agents on board the patrol boat, which only suffered damage to the rear section. The patrol boat, made of aluminum and fiberglass, is larger and more resistant compared to the narcotic traffickers’ semi-rigid boats. The presence of the patrol boat prevented further damage, as it was equipped to handle such situations. The narco-boats had been present in the area for about a week, according to the mayor, and had now moved to Estepona and Marbella.
Illegalization of narco-boats in 2018 led to changes in the modus operandi of narcotic traffickers, who now keep their boats at sea for extended periods while being assisted by supplies and crew changes from petaco boats. In inclement weather conditions, the traffickers are forced to seek shelter near the coast. Similar incidents have occurred previously, including a fatal collision in February that resulted in the deaths of two Civil Guard agents. In that case, the agents were in a smaller boat, exposing them to greater risk.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by narcotic trafficking in the region and the risks faced by law enforcement agents. Substantial efforts are required to combat these criminal activities and ensure the safety of the communities in the area. Government authorities continue to monitor and respond to these incidents, employing various strategies to prevent further incidents and apprehend those involved in illegal activities. Collaboration between different agencies and increased resources are essential to address the complex issues associated with narcotic trafficking in the region.
