The Portuguese authorities warn that already there is evidence that there is a renewed interest in Portugal as the drug gateway into Europe.
Due to the intensified presence of authorities on land, sea and air, the usual drug trafficking routes are being disrupted with importers targeting Portugal’s coastline to land drugs destined for northern Europe.
The routes being used by refugees from Africa, Syria, Afghanistan and Pakistan are pretty much the same ones as drug lords used to transport drugs from source to market. The strong military and police presence along these routes has made a rethink necessary and Portugal is seen as an under patrolled area where the landing of significant shipments is low to medium risk.
According to police sources there are tell tale signs that the shipment routes have changed and Portugal is being used.
The recent arrest of two fishermen with nearly 3.5 tons of cocaine on board is the tip of the iceberg as the Colombians intensify shipments.
The Portuguese authorities are monitoring the situation, according to a report in Jornal de Notícias today.
