The Spanish National Police and Navy forces staged a coordinated response to a simulated terror threat near the Alicante cruise terminal that unfolded within view of cruise ship passengers.

The drill tested joint emergency protocols and inter-agency coordination between the Navy, National Police, and the Alicante Port Authority. The exercise was designed to simulate multiple terror-related incidents involving 80 Navy troops and 50 police officers from various tactical and intelligence units.

Two high-stakes scenarios played out simultaneously. The first involved three terrorists hijacking a fishing boat loaded with explosives heading toward the port of Alicante. Special Operations Group team launched an assault from the Navy vessel storming the fishing boat and neutralizing the suspects.

While that drama unfolded eight nautical miles offshore, a second scenario was conducted at the Alicante cruise terminal, where a fourth terrorist carried out a knife attack on disembarking passengers. According to the simulation, the assailant panicked after failing to link up with his co-conspirators offshore, prompting the rampage. Officers from the Police Prevention and Reaction Unit quickly intervened, apprehending the suspect and securing the terminal area.

Dozens of guests aboard MSC Cruises ship docked at the terminal witnessed the drill, some initially confused and alarmed by the unfolding action. Cruise passengers reportedly watched the mock assault unfold from their balconies and decks, with reactions ranging from startled concern to relieved laughter upon learning it was a simulation.