The six men were identified by the Maritime Police and left the vacant property voluntarily, with no arrests being carried out. The incident comes amid growing concerns over drug-smuggling activity and criminal networks operating along the Algarve’s coast.
The Maritime Police confirmed the incident on Sunday, following the unauthorised occupation on Saturday, 10 October, according to Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manhã.
The property reportedly belongs to Faro City Council and has been unoccupied for several years. The incident came to light after a local resident witnessed the occupation in the small town of Farol and alerted the authorities. The Maritime Police responded promptly, working alongside the Municipal Police.
During the operation, officers identified six men of Spanish nationality, but who were of Moroccan origin. They were instructed to leave the property and reportedly complied voluntarily.
No further details about the men or whether any formal proceedings were initiated were provided in the report.
The incident has heightened concerns among the small number of residents living on the Algarve’s barrier islands, where communities have become increasingly uneasy about suspected drug-smuggling operations and the use of coastal areas to support organised crime.
Recent seizures of drugs and petrol believed to be intended for refuelling high-speed boats linked to narcotics trafficking have added to those concerns.
According to a report by the Correio da Manhã, criminal organisations in several parts of the Algarve have been found to be renting properties in strategically located areas to monitor the coastline and track police movements.
However, it must be noted that the available information in the police’s report does not establish any connection between the six men identified on Culatra Island and drug trafficking, or other organised criminal activity.
Portuguese authorities have been increasing surveillance and enforcement measures along the southern coast in response to suspected maritime smuggling networks.
By the end of September 2026, more than 200,000 litres of fuel had reportedly been seized this year alone. Fuel supplies are a crucial component in the work of maritime smugglers, enabling boats to make repeated journeys and remain operational over extended periods.
Source: Maritime Police / CM
Photo credit: CMTV
