The discovery was made in the early hours of Sunday during a routine patrol by the GNR's Coastal and Border Control Unit (UCCF).

As reported by Renascença, officers noticed unusual activity in the area and began investigating whether it could be linked to fuel smuggling or an operation supporting drug trafficking at sea.

The GNR later confirmed that an attempt was being made to transfer the fuel to a high-speed boat close to Praia do Castelo.

Around 200 jerrycans containing fuel were seized, although authorities were still counting the exact number. Two vehicles were also confiscated, including a passenger vehicle and a goods vehicle.

The GNR confirmed six arrests, with further information about those involved expected to be released later.

Similar cases across the Algarve

The incident in Albufeira is not the first of its kind in recent days, with several similar fuel seizures reported along the Algarve coast.

On Thursday, the Maritime Police seized two boats, two engines and five fuel containers that had been hidden among vegetation in Alvor, in the municipality of Portimão.

On the same day, the GNR intercepted 14 men at Alvor beach during another suspected fuel transfer involving a high-speed boat. Eight reportedly did not have identification documents. A goods vehicle carrying 137 fuel containers was also seized.

Another operation followed on Friday in the Fuseta area of Olhão, where the Maritime Police found a boat carrying approximately 2,600 litres of fuel in 133 containers, as well as food supplies.

The recent seizures come amid suspicions that fuel and other supplies stored along the Algarve coast may be used to support high-speed boats involved in maritime drug trafficking.

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