Seven people were n arrested and two high-speed boats seized following a police operation at sea south of the Algarve on Tuesday (March 31).
The action, carried out by the Maritime Police in coordination with the Portuguese Navy, targeted two vessels suspected of being involved in drug trafficking.
Authorities said the boats were identified as suspicious before a joint team, including tactical units and marines, moved in to intercept them.
When approached, the individuals on board fled at high speed, carrying out dangerous evasive manoeuvres in an attempt to escape, according to a statement by the National Maritime Authority (AMN). After a pursuit at sea, both vessels were successfully intercepted.
The two speedboats, believed to have been used in drug trafficking operations, were seized.
Seven people were detained – six Spanish nationals and one Moroccan – and are now facing legal proceedings.
Officials say the operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat organised crime along Portugal’s coastline, with regular patrols aimed at preventing and disrupting drug trafficking in national waters.
