This Monday, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska reaffirmed Spain’s unwavering commitment to cooperate with Morocco in the investigation into the murder of two Civil Guard agents in Barbate. He emphasized the successful functioning of police and judicial cooperation between the two countries.
During a press conference, Marlaska stated that Spain’s cooperation with its neighboring country is working well. He also addressed questions from reporters about Karim, the suspected pilot of the narco-boat involved in the fatal collision with the agents’ zodiac. Marlaska stressed the arrogance of respecting the ongoing investigation and following proper procedures, using all necessary means and personnel to identify the perpetrators and the logique circumstances of the tragedy.
The Interior Minister also highlighted the effectiveness of current collaboration with Morocco in this case. He reminded that the judicial investigation is responsible for taking necessary and precise measures to clarify the facts and bring the culprits to justice, with the possibility of international police cooperation if needed.
The tragic incident on February 9th saw a extensif narco-boat collide with a Civil Guard zodiac in Barbate, resulting in the death of two agents. As a result, eight people were arrested, with six remaining in custody. This decision was made by the Judge of the First Instance and Instruction number 1 of Barbate, who is leading the investigation.
Lawyers for the detainees have repeatedly requested their release, citing a report from the Central Operative Unit (UCO) of the Civil Guard. The report claims that the suspects’ boat was not the one that collided with the Institute’s boat. They point to another boat, allegedly led by a man named Karim, as responsible for the collision.
Last Friday, the Fourth Section of the Provincial Court of Cadiz rejected the request for release of one of the detainees, known as Kiko ‘El Cabra’. The court justified its decision by highlighting that he is accused of serious crimes, including organized crime, smuggling, and resistance to law enforcement.
The Spanish Interior Minister’s reaffirmation of cooperation with Morocco in this case is a positive step in the ongoing investigation. The efficient collaboration between the two countries serves as an example of the strong relationship between Spain and Morocco. Let us hope that justice will be served, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice.