Former West Brom Footballer Neil Clement Detained in Spanish Drug Operation
Neil Clement, a former West Bromwich Albion defender, has been identified as the individual arrested by Spanish police during a significant drugs raid on the Costa del Sol. The 47-year-old ex-Premier League star was taken into custody at a shopping centre in Riviera del Sol, located between Marbella and Fuengirola.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
According to reports, Clement was allegedly found carrying a bag of cannabis that he is said to have purchased. Officers then conducted a search of a nearby property he had just left, where they reportedly discovered additional narcotics. The arrest occurred earlier this week, with police initially withholding the suspect's age and nationality until further identification was made public.
The Sun newspaper has confirmed that the arrested man is Neil Clement, who enjoyed a ten-year career at West Bromwich Albion from 2000 to 2010. The defender, who began his professional journey at Chelsea before moving to the West Midlands, scored 24 goals in 295 appearances for the Baggies.
Police Operation and Court Proceedings
Clement was detained at an allegedly illegal cannabis club named Doobiez. Police had intercepted a customer who claimed to have just bought a bag of cannabis at the premises. Following this, officers seized more drugs and cash from inside the club before Clement was seen being led away in handcuffs.
After his arrest, Clement, a father of two who played for England at youth level and is the younger brother of Brazil assistant coach Paul Clement, appeared in court. He was released on bail pending further investigations into the matter.
Official Police Statement and Seized Items
Local police in Mijas, which includes Riviera del Sol, released a statement detailing the operation. Officers noticed suspicious movements of people entering and leaving the premises during surveillance on the afternoon of March 10. They intercepted a customer found with a heat-sealed bag of cannabis, who stated it was purchased inside the club.
A subsequent search of the premises led to the discovery of a large quantity of narcotic substances, including 1,170 grams of cannabis, 865 grams of hashish, and a significant amount of cash. Materials used in the preparation and distribution of these substances were also confiscated.
Juan Carlos Cuevas, deputy mayor for Mijas, provided further specifics, noting that two bags of cannabis weighing 489 and 681 grams respectively were seized, along with 865 grams of hashish resin and 164 cannabis cigarettes ready for sale. Additional items included 79 glass jars, 23 plastic jars, bags with compartments for cannabis cigarettes, heat-sealed envelopes, two precision digital scales, and cash totalling €3,469.90 and £225.
Background and Location
Reports indicate that the premises Clement was allegedly involved with did not possess an opening and activity licence. The Las Terrazas Commercial Centre, where the raid took place, is a popular destination for British holidaymakers and expats, featuring amenities such as a supermarket, restaurants, a gym, and a dog grooming salon.
This arrest highlights ongoing efforts by Spanish authorities to combat drug-related activities in the region, with police emphasising their commitment to safety through constant surveillance and swift action in response to community concerns.
