Spain seizes nearly 13 tonnes of laughing gas in major Tenerife crackdown

17 August 2026 , 18:58

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Spain seizes nearly 13 tonnes of laughing gas in major Tenerife crackdown

Spain’s Civil Guard dismantled an alleged criminal organization accused of illegally importing and distributing nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, in Tenerife, seizing nearly 13 tons of the substance in what authorities called Europe’s second-largest haul.

Six people were arrested and another six placed under investigation for alleged involvement in a criminal organization, drug trafficking, trafficking in substances harmful to health, and money laundering, the Civil Guard said. During searches in Arona, Adeje and Granadilla de Abona, officers seized 10,394 containers holding almost 13,000 kilograms of nitrous oxide, as well as 63,500 euros (US$74,000) and 1,000 pounds (US$1,350) in cash.

Authorities also confiscated cocaine, hashish, marijuana and “tusi,” along with imitation firearms and bladed weapons. Investigators said the alleged organization was headed by members of one family and divided into branches responsible for importing the gas from abroad, storing it in properties around the island, and distributing it to customers. The investigation remains ongoing and further arrests are possible, according to the Civil Guard.

Sophia Martinez

World Affairs Correspondent