In a dramatic anti-narcotics operation, the Guardia Civil thwarted a major drug smuggling attempt on the Guadalquivir River in Cádiz.

The operation, which took place in Sanlúcar de Barrameda, involved the interception of eight high-speed narcolanchas, or drug boats, attempting to transport 121 bales of hashish.

The pursuit ended tragically when one of the boats collided with the coast, resulting in the death of one smuggler and injuries to four others.

The Guardia Civil managed to seize 74 bales of hashish from the scene.

The incident highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region, with the Judicial Police of the Guardia Civil in Cádiz leading the investigation.

The case has been forwarded to the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Court for further proceedings.