The arrests took place as part of the “Deep Cleaning VI” operation and concern a “criminal group” that, through regular airline flights, were dedicated to “the introduction of large quantities of narcotic products into national territory”, stated the PJ.

The detainees “removed the drugs directly from the hold of the planes, shortly after their arrival, diverting it from baggage inspection”, said the same source.

“A large quantity of cocaine was seized which, if it reached the illicit distribution circuits, would be sufficient to form at least 440,000 individual doses; a drug that had just arrived in Lisbon, on a flight from Latin America”, added the PJ.

A “large amount of money in notes”, four high-powered cars, cell phones and various documentation “relevant to proving the facts under investigation” were also seized.

The detainees, aged 42, 47 and 50, were present for the first judicial interrogation.

The operation had the support of the Public Security Police. According to the PJ, the investigation continues.