Spanish police linked to drug trafficking ring

TWO police officers and a customs official are facing trial accused of assisting drug traffickers.

The trio allegedly helped the gang smuggle three consignments of hashish totalling more than 3,600 kilos into Spain via Huelva between October 2010 and February 2011.

One Guardia Civil officer warned the traffickers about scheduled patrols and let told them which days were best for avoiding detection.

Another placed electronic tracking devices inside patrol cars to allow the gang to track their movement.

During a search of his home, police found €6,000 in cash, which he claimed had been given to him by his father, as well as two GPS devices and night vision goggles.

The customs officer – based at the port in Muelle del Tinto – is alleged to have kept the cartel informed about the movement of other boats on shipment days.

In total, 13 people are involved in the drug ring, many of which are now standing trial for a string of offences including money laundering and possession of firearms.