The Maritime Police have arrested three people and seized a high-speed vessel off the Algarve coast suspected of involvement in drug trafficking, following a maritime pursuit.
In a statement, the authority said the operation took place on Monday morning, 27th April, in coordination with a Portuguese Navy vessel and a Portuguese Air Force aircraft, resulting in the arrest of three Moroccan nationals.
The operation was launched after the suspicious speedboat was identified, with two Maritime Police high-speed craft deployed in the pursuit. The interception was carried out by the Maritime Police Tactical Action Group, supported by a team from the Southern Regional Command of the Maritime Police.
Approximately 70 fuel jerrycans and various items of equipment were found on board the vessel, materials considered consistent with long-range operations typically associated with narcotics trafficking.
The suspects have been formally charged, with proceedings continuing under the direction of the competent judicial authority.
Authorities said the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated maritime response capabilities and reinforces the Maritime Police’s role in combating organised crime while safeguarding national sovereignty and security.
Source: Maritime Police
