Police have arrested a suspected drug trafficker at Tenerife North Airport after intercepting a parcel containing 504 grams of the synthetic drug commonly known as pink cocaine, hidden inside a soft toy.

The arrest formed part of an investigation into chemical drugs being sent to the Canary Islands in small packages from different parts of mainland Spain. Police said the operation was particularly focused on pink cocaine and ecstasy.

Officers intercepted one parcel at Madrid Airport after discovering that it was destined for Tenerife. An inspection revealed the drugs concealed inside the toy, and laboratory tests were carried out to confirm the substance.

The suspect was detained at Tenerife North Airport while allegedly preparing to collect the parcel. They were later brought before the relevant judicial authority.

The cuddly toy is the latest in a series of unusual methods used to conceal drugs on flights to the Canary Islands. Previous cases have involved narcotics hidden in sealed food tins, specially made fabric coverings worn around the legs, false compartments in suitcases and capsules swallowed by passengers. Authorities have also discovered drugs strapped to travellers’ bodies or concealed within ordinary luggage in attempts to evade airport checks.