Operation Checkmate - One of the largest ever operations against drugs in Mallorca

For the GDOA, there has also been the increased presence of Colombian gangs who have challenged the dominance of the Son Banya gypsy clans and the spread of the drugs trade in the city. In Corea, La Soledad and Son Gotleu, ordinary folk have become accustomed to the sight of high-end vehicles. This dispersal has created ever greater challenges for the security forces as well as for local residents.

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Gypsies president arrested in huge drugs operation in Mallorca

On Wednesday, two alleged drugs barons were arrested. El Charly is the president of the gypsies federation. In the past he was engaged in a feud in Son Banya with La Paca. More recently, he has cultivated a different image as president - supporting social and sports activities, for instance. The Guardia Civil have never been convinced. They accuse him of continuing to launder money, something he denies.

The second arrest was that of Joaquín 'El Prestamista', the Lender. He has attained a sort of celebrity, but he has been closely watched. One of his sons said on Wednesday that his father was innocent and wasn't involved with drugs.

Then there is Pablo Campos Maya ('El Pablo'). He wasn't arrested on Wednesday as he is already in prison. But the operation didn't finish in the morning. In the afternoon, dozens of heavily armed police stormed his 'palace' on the C. Teix, a street that he has been converting into a private monopoly.