Catalan police dismantled a criminal group that allegedly used a network of at least 13 tourist apartments in Barcelona’s central Eixample district to sell synthetic drugs linked to ‘chemsex’ parties. Officers arrested three individuals in an operation that seized over 11 kilograms of narcotics, with an estimated street value of €400,000.
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In a statement released on Sunday, the Mossos d’Esquadra confirmed the arrests occurred last Wednesday, 18th February. The three suspects, aged between 25 and 44, face charges of belonging to a criminal organisation and drug trafficking. The operation also yielded more than €100,740 in cash, a bill-counting machine, and two precision scales.
Investigators targeted the supply of drugs commonly associated with ‘chemsex’. This term describes the intentional use of psychoactive substances to enhance and prolong sexual experiences. Health authorities, including Spain’s Ministry of Health and the Public Health Agency of Catalonia, have identified the practice as a growing public health concern. This is due to its links with higher risks of STI transmission and substance dependency.
A Moving Distribution Network
Investigators revealed the group operated a sophisticated, discreet distribution system to avoid detection. Two members of the trio rented a constantly changing portfolio of short-term tourist apartments, primarily in the bustling Eixample district, while the third member managed sales.
As El Periódico reported, buyers contacted the seller by phone and were then directed to one of the 13 apartments to complete transactions. This strategy of using multiple locations made it difficult for police to pinpoint the group’s base of operations. The investigation, led by the Mossos’ Regional Public Health Investigation Unit in Barcelona, had been underway for months. For instance, between September and December 2025, police arrested four different buyers. These arrests helped them build a case against the core members of the supply chain.
Wednesday’s Raid and Seizure
The investigation culminated in a coordinated police raid early on Wednesday morning. Officers searched two residential properties in Eixample, arresting the three main suspects. Subsequently, during a search of the suspects’ vehicles, they discovered a suitcase containing the group’s main stock of drugs.
The haul was significant, comprising a wide array of synthetic drugs. The full inventory of the seizure included:
4.2 kg of MDMA 2.44 kg of ketamine 1.42 kg of ecstasy pills 1 kg of cocaine 1 kg of ‘Tusi’ (also known as pink cocaine) 953 grams of methamphetamine
This significant seizure underscores the challenges authorities face in policing the intersection of the city’s vibrant nightlife, the illicit drug trade, and the transient nature of its tourism industry. The use of holiday lets for criminal purposes is a recurring issue, complicating efforts to regulate the sector and ensure neighbourhood safety.
