Police divers have uncovered a large cache of hashish concealed inside a remote sea cave on Italy’s scenic island of Ponza, a well-known summer destination frequented by wealthy tourists and celebrities.
Authorities said the operation led to the seizure of 330 blocks of hashish weighing a total of 40 kilograms.
The drugs were hidden inside a cave in the Chiaia di Luna area, a location accessible only by boat. Investigators estimate the narcotics have a street value exceeding $500,000.
Officials told CNN that law enforcement officers had been monitoring the entrance to the cave before carrying out the operation. Investigators suspect the drugs were intended for distribution during the busy summer tourism season, which is set to begin with a three-day holiday weekend.
Footage released by authorities showed divers reaching the narrow cave from a police boat.
The operation was conducted jointly by the 4th Naval Unit Squad of the Gaeta Naval Operations and the Ponza branch of Italy’s Guardia di Finanza financial police.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Guardia di Finanza said cave divers navigated through an underwater tunnel to reach the hidden stash.
“The investigative activity, carried out through intelligence services, territorial observation, and monitoring of suspicious movements, led to the identification of a significant quantity of narcotics intended to fuel the illicit market during the summer season,” they said.
“This is a significant achievement that demonstrates the professionalism and training of the personnel employed, capable of operating in particularly complex and difficult-to-access environments.”
Authorities believe the drugs were transported to the island by dinghy from the mainland town of Anzio.
Ponza Mayor Francesco Ambrosino said local authorities remain vigilant against drug trafficking as the island prepares for a surge in visitors.
“The season has just begun. We expect 15,000 people to arrive for the upcoming weekend of Saints Peter and Paul: there are 3,000 residents,” he told La Repubblica.
“It’s clear that with these numbers, drug dealing can be a problem, but the seizures demonstrate that law enforcement is paying close attention. This is comforting.”
Ambrosino noted that Ponza’s limited police presence can make the island attractive to partygoers. According to him, only five police officers are stationed on the island, with much of their time spent managing ferry traffic and arrivals.
The discovery comes as Italian authorities continue efforts to combat maritime drug trafficking. In a separate operation off Sicily’s eastern coast, the Guardia di Finanza recently recovered nearly two tons of cocaine during an aerial surveillance mission.
The cocaine was found in 70 waterproof floating packages linked together and equipped with a signaling light device, according to authorities.
Ponza, the largest island in the Pontine archipelago between Rome and Naples, has long been a favorite retreat for celebrities, including the late fashion designer Giorgio Armani, Beyoncé and Naomi Campbell.
Beyond its reputation as a luxury getaway, the island also holds historical significance. In July 1943, Italy’s fascist dictator Benito Mussolini was detained there following his overthrow and arrest.
He remained on the island for only 10 days before being transferred to other locations as authorities sought to prevent German forces from restoring him to power.
