Overview
- The SVA patrol boat Audaz, a new Rodman R‑55, was hit during a high-speed pursuit Friday off Almería, leaving a side window shattered and no crew injured.
- Tax agency and local government sources said the smugglers’ boats carried fuel canisters and one collided with the patrol vessel during the chase.
- Union sources reported about six go-fast boats joined the action, one struck the patrol craft to free the target, then the crews regrouped on one vessel and fled, leaving another boat behind that could not be towed.
- The Jusva union called for better equipment and said it will seek a meeting with Finance Minister Arcadi España to secure recognition of customs officers as a profession of risk.
- This comes a week after two Guardia Civil agents died in a Huelva pursuit under investigation, as officials highlight roughly 600 narco boats on the Atlantic route and warn that fuel-heavy designs make forceful stops dangerous.