Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago located off the coast of Northwest Africa, are currently newsworthy due to their involvement in both drug trafficking and migration routes. Recent events highlight the islands' strategic location for illicit activities. Spanish police recently seized approximately 10 tonnes of cocaine hidden on a ship near the islands, representing their largest seizure at sea. This operation targeted a multinational criminal group allegedly exporting cocaine from South America to Europe. Separately, a migrant boat capsized off the coast of The Gambia, a common departure point for those attempting to reach Europe, highlighting the ongoing migration crisis in the region and the Canary Islands as a potential destination. These incidents underscore the Canary Islands' significance as a transit point for both illegal drugs and migrants, presenting challenges for law enforcement and humanitarian efforts.