Operational Intelligence and the Spanish Guardia Civil’s Carteia Plan: An Exploratory Thematic Analysis of Police Officer Perceptions and Experiences

Abstract

Introduction: This exploratory study examines the effectiveness of intelligence services in combating drug trafficking in southern Spain, with a focus on the integrated efforts of the Spanish Guardia Civil’s Carteia Plan and its Regional Analysis and Intelligence Center against Drug Trafficking (CRAIN). The purpose is to assess, through the police officers’ experience, how these initiatives enhance operational information collection and intelligence to counteract the pervasive threat of drug trafficking in the Campo de Gibraltar region.Methods: Building on previous research, a qualitative approach was employed to conduct this paper, incorporating a survey and interviews with both law enforcement and intelligence personnel. The study also involved a comprehensive review of policy documents and operational reports from the Guardia Civil and CRAIN to evaluate their integrated intelligence model.Results: The findings highlight that the integrated intelligence and operational strategies conducted by CRAIN in close collaboration with the Guardia Civil’s GAR special operation group significantly improve the efficacy of not only drug interdiction efforts, but also of any strategy against organized crime. The plan’s coordinated initiatives have led to a notable increase in drug seizures and arrests, demonstrating the effectiveness of enhanced intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation.Conclusions: The research concludes that an integrated intelligence framework is essential for effectively combating organized crime. The implementation of the Carteia Plan and CRAIN’s functioning underscores the importance of comprehensive and adaptive approaches. Policy recommendations include fostering stronger inter-agency collaboration and promoting a transversal intelligence culture across different operational units, essential to address the dynamic and multifaceted nature of drug trafficking.