The key facts

  • Three suspects detained and four searches conducted — three in Dos Hermanas and one in Seville
  • Working AK-47 rifles of 7.62 mm calibre and an M80 grenade launcher of 64 mm calibre seized
  • The investigation began in June; assault rifles could fetch up to 6,000 euros each on the black market

Arrest after a chase and a discarded bag

Spanish police have detained three people in the province of Seville on suspicion of involvement in trafficking military-grade weapons, Euronews reports. During a surveillance operation, officers spotted two suspects travelling in a car. Noticing the police, they attempted to flee and threw a bag onto the road. Inside were a 7.62 mm AK-47 assault rifle and a 64 mm M80 anti-tank grenade launcher — both, according to police, in working condition. Both passengers were detained, and a third arrest was made later in connection with brokering the sale of weapons.

Network of intermediaries and the price of the weapons

The investigation began in June, when police received information about a possible network engaged in selling such weapons. Initial checks identified several individuals based in Dos Hermanas who, according to the investigation, acted as intermediaries between weapons suppliers and potential buyers. One of the main suspects was responsible for organising contacts. According to the investigation, the price of assault rifles on the illegal market could reach 6,000 euros per unit. The seized weapons, as stated in the official statement, were intended for criminal organisations linked to drug trafficking.

Searches and referral to court

As part of the operation, four searches were carried out: three in Dos Hermanas and one in Seville. The three detainees were handed over to the investigating court, which was acting as the duty court, in Dos Hermanas. The publication does not report on the charges brought or the further course of the case.