Alleged drug smugglers bailed

Eight people accused of drug smuggling in Órzola were yesterday freed on provisional bail and one held in preventive custody.

Six of the accused were arrested in March, and a further three detained later after police raids in Arrecife, Tinajo, Teguise and Haría uncovered a kilogramme of cocaine and 315 kgs of hashish. €63,000 in cash, nine vehicles, two boats and two jet skis were also confiscated.

Police believe that one of the group members, an expert fisherman, would rendezvous with smugglers at high sea. The drugs would later be taken on shore at isolated beaches and hidden in various properties around the island.

Police suspicions were raised by the fact that some of the accused appeared to enjoy a lavish lifestyle despite not having any jobs.