53 Fighting Cocks Seized As Massive Police Raid Dismantles Criminal Network In Torrelavega

A large-scale police operation was carried out in Torrelavega, Cantabria, on May 27, 2026, targeting a multi-criminal organization led by three family clans.

The operation involved more than 400 officers and included coordinated raids across Torrelavega and nearby areas such as Campuzano, Barreda, and Cartes.

Footage from body cameras and operational recordings shows heavily armed Policía Nacional officers moving through streets at night in full tactical gear, using flashlights as they approached buildings and vehicles.

Officers forced entry into homes and outbuildings by breaking grilles, doors, and gates, before searching interiors in dimly lit rooms and hallways.

Seized items were later displayed and sorted, including small bottles, packets of white substances identified as drugs, cash, improvised items, and other contraband.

Daytime scenes show detainees with blurred faces being escorted in handcuffs by officers wearing high-visibility vests toward police vehicles.

Authorities confirmed that 33 people were arrested and 26 properties were searched during the operation.

Among the most notable seizures were 53 fighting cocks, alongside more than €10,000 in cash, jewelry, large quantities of drugs, and 110 vehicles, many of them high-end.

The group is linked to alleged crimes including drug trafficking, extortion, violent robberies, money laundering, and illegal cockfighting.

Several of those detained were later ordered into custody without bail as the investigation continues under judicial secrecy.