Italian police divers have uncovered a massive stash of hashish worth more than half a million dollars hidden in a sea cave off the celebrity island of Ponza, authorities announced Wednesday.
Discovery in Underwater Cave
The operation, conducted by Italy's financial police (Guardia di Finanza), involved specialized divers who searched the rocky coastline of Ponza, a popular destination in the Tyrrhenian Sea known for attracting celebrities and tourists. The drugs were found in a natural cave accessible only from the sea, concealed in waterproof packages.
According to police, the hashish had an estimated street value of over $500,000 (€460,000). One suspect was arrested in connection with the discovery, though authorities did not immediately release details about the individual.
Ponza's History of Drug Smuggling
Ponza, part of the Pontine Islands archipelago, has a history of being used by drug traffickers due to its rugged coastline and numerous hidden coves. In 2023, police seized nearly 300 kilograms of cocaine in a similar operation on the island. This latest bust underscores ongoing efforts by Italian law enforcement to combat drug smuggling in the Mediterranean.
“The discovery demonstrates the constant vigilance of our forces against drug trafficking, even in the most remote and difficult-to-reach locations,” a Guardia di Finanza spokesperson said. The investigation is ongoing to determine the source of the hashish and its intended distribution network.
