Skip to content

Mafia associates in Calabria face arrest: Three individuals linked to the 'Ndrangheta apprehended in Ibiza

International cooperation led to the execution of the operation, involving the ROS-Roma unit of the Carabinieri based in Italy.

Mafia group 'Ndrangheta suffers setback with arrest of three members in Ibiza, Calabria
Mafia group 'Ndrangheta suffers setback with arrest of three members in Ibiza, Calabria

Mafia associates in Calabria face arrest: Three individuals linked to the 'Ndrangheta apprehended in Ibiza

The 'Ndrangheta, one of the world's most powerful and dangerous criminal organisations with over 150 years of existence, has been making its mark in countries where it operates, influencing politics, economy, and security. This organisation, known for its highly secretive structure based on discretion and family ties, has an active presence in Europe, America, Africa, and Asia.

Recently, the General Commissariat of Information of the National Police in Spain has been investigating and monitoring the implantation of the 'Ndrangheta, particularly its intentions to establish a stronghold in Spain, especially in coastal areas and archipelagos.

Last Friday, an operation concluded with the arrest of three people and two house searches, one in Ibiza and one in Barcelona. The arrest in Ibiza took place in a villa during the morning, where the individuals in the house fled at high speed upon seeing the police, leading to a chase. The detainees were eventually detained "with force" on the highway. One of the detainees attempted to flee from the authorities again, causing injuries to the agents.

The arrested individuals are suspected of involvement in drug trafficking and membership in the Calabrian mafia known as 'Ndrangheta. The arrests were carried out based on European Arrest Warrants issued by Italian authorities, coordinated by the Antimafia Directorate of the Public Prosecutor's Office in Rome.

The search in Barcelona resulted in the seizure of 35,000 euros in cash, high-value jewelry, false identity documents, narcotic substances, mobile devices, and documentation of interest. The 'Ndrangheta has set its sights on Spain and has a clear intention to establish it as one of the key points for its expansion.

The influence of the 'Ndrangheta can be a potentially destabilizing threat to states, especially those that have the ideal conditions for organisations of this type to prosper. The 'Ndrangheta's operations, if left unchecked, could pose a significant risk to the safety and security of Spain and other countries where it operates.

This is not the first time the 'Ndrangheta has been targeted by international law enforcement agencies. Due to its secretive nature, the 'Ndrangheta has proven difficult to dismantle, but with continued cooperation and vigilance, efforts can be made to minimise its impact.

Read also: