Section » Drug Activity

Mexico: Five suspected members of Gulf Cartel detained

Mexico, Aug 26 (Prensa Latina) Five suspected members of the Gulf Cartel were arrested during an operation in the state of Guerrero, state prosecutors announced today.
Local authorities said the four men and a 20-year-old woman, are linked to the murder of five people from January to August this year. The operation also involved seizure of the weapons found in the vehicle they were traveling at the time to be captured. Read Article

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Ancon, Peru: More than 300 Liters of Precursor Seized

From Peru 21 on August 26, 2013- Authorities intercepted a truck that was transporting more than 300 liters of muriatic acid, a component chemical in drug manufacturing, hidden amongst pottery. The vehicle had no documents proving their ownership of or transfer authorization for the acid which is a controlled substance. It is believed that the […]

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Colombia: FARC Leader Killed Near Panamanian Border

From lainformacion.com on August 25, 2013- The leader of the FARC’s 57th Front, known only as “Silver” was killed in a Colombian military operation against a rebel camp near the Panamanian border. During the operation authorities seized 15 rifles from the guerrillas’ camp. Authorities noted that “Silver” was a key leader for drug trafficking from […]

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Puerto de Moín, Costa Rica: Authorities Seize 300 Kilos of Cocaine from Colombia

From lainformacion.com on August 26, 2013- Costa Rican police National Guardsmen seized 300 kilos of cocaine hidden in the hull of a Colombian boat known as “Sant Lucía.” The boat originated in the Colombian port of Puerto de Turbo in Antioquia, and the boat was seized in the Costa Rican port of Puerto de Moín. […]

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Antofagasta, Chile: Carabineros Seize 34 Kilos of Drugs, 360 Doses of Cough Syrup

Terra on August 26, 2013- Police operations in two different Antofagastan cities resulted in two arrests and seizure of several illicit drugs. In Calama, operatives from OS-7 detected drugs in a vehicle operated by Juan Morales. In his luggage authorities found 25 kilos 750 grams of crack cocaine and 10 kilos of marijuana. The second […]

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São Paulo, Brazil: Police Discover Hundreds of Marijuana Plants on Plantation

Globo reported on August 25, 2013 that the Military Police discovered a marijuana plantation in Campinas, São Paulo after receiving an anonymous tip. The police report the property had controlled-like conditions including a heated greenhouse, an automatic irrigation system, as well as photographs. Hundreds of marijuana plants were found with a placeholder to package the […]

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Brazilian Couple Detained in Spain for International Drug Trafficking Charges

On August 22, 2013, Terra reported that a Brazilian couple was detained in Ibiza, Spain for international drug trafficking. The couple, who acted as “mules”, was part of a gang that transports cocaine and ecstasy from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo and to Spain, Germany and the Netherlands. Interpol with the help of the […]

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Federal District, Brazil: 10 Suspects Arrest for Drug Trafficking, Brazil

Globo reported on August 22, 2013 that the civil police in the Federal District detained 10 suspects accuse of drug trafficking in Bandeirante. Police report this is the largest group in the region responsible for selling drugs. Upon arrest, police confiscated a precision scale, phones, marijuana, cocaine, crack and cash. Suspects hid the drugs in […]

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Ecuador: survey reports average age of beginning drug use age 14

The dreams that many families in Ecuador have for their 14-year-old children are being turned into nightmares by drugs. That’s the average age young people start using drugs in Ecuador, according to the Fourth National Drug Survey by the National Council for the Control of Narcotic and Psychotropic Substances (CONSEP), which in 2012 interviewed 30,000 […]

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San Andrés, Guatemala: Authorities Seize 40 Barrels of Chemical Precursor

From lainformacion.com on August 20, 2013- Guatemalan security forces seized 40 barrels (8338 liters) of chemical precursor for synthetic drugs in the northern part of the country. The seizure occurred at the Six Islands farm in the city of San Andrés, Petén Department, along the Mexican and Belizean borders. Authorities arrested José Antonio Galdámez in […]

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Colon, Panama: Authorities Discover 1,396 Kilos of Cocaine in Shipwreck

From lainformacion.com on August 20, 2013- The National Air Service of Panama (SENAN) reported that it seized 1,396 kilos of cocaine on the coast of the Colon province in the Casa Blanca area. The drugs were hidden in a beached boat. SENAN found the stash on the boat after receiving intelligence from the Directorate of […]

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Paraná, Brazil: Drug Trafficking Operation Detains 24 Suspects

On August 19, 2013, Globo reported that DENARC; State Division of Narcotics detained 24 suspects after a five-month investigation named “Operation Iapó” in Paraná. During the operation, police managed to seize 12 kilos marijuana, firearms, vehicles, 3 kilograms of crack cocaine, and R$7,500 in cash. In addition, the police report to have already arrested four […]

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Reynosa, Mexico: Leader of Gulf Cartel Captured

From Peru.com on August 18, 2013- Mexican authorities have reported the arrest of Armando Ramirez Trevino, leader of the Gulf Cartel. Ramirez Trevino is linked to armed attacks against police, organized crime, kidnappings, and drug trafficking. The U.S. Justice Department had warrants issued for Ramirez Trevino’s arrest on charges of drug trafficking, and offered a […]

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Nariño, Colombia: Navy Destroys Two Clandestine FARC Laboratories

From lainformacion.com on August 17, 2013- The Colombian Navy destroyed two clandestine FARC laboratories in the department of Nariño. Together, these two labs could produce around 280 kilos of cocaine a month. The two operations occurred in the villages of Satinga and Mosquera. In the Santinga laboratory, troops found 180 gallons of liquid materials and […]

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San Blas, Panama: U.S., Colombian, Panamanian Efforts Lead to Seizure of 225 Kilos of Cocaine

From lainformacion.com on August 18, 2013- A shipment of 225 kilos of cocaine that was being transported by boat through the Caribbean Sea was seized in an operation that included U.S., Colombian, and Panamanian forces. The boat carrying the drugs was called the “Nina Darye” and was detected in the Colombian Caribbean by the Colombian […]

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Cortés, Honduras: Destroyed Plane Thought to Carry Drugs

From lainformacion.com on August 19, 2013- A small plane that was presumably transporting drugs was destroyed after the Honduran Air Force ordered the plane to land. The plane was detected by authorities in Gracias a Dios near the Nicaraguan border, and ordered to land in the Ramal del Tigre sector of the Cortés Department in […]

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La Calera, Chile: Two Colombians Detained with More than 50 Kilos of Paraguayan Marijuana

From Terra on August 19, 2013- BRIANT agents detained two Colombians for drug trafficking in La Calera. One of the traffickers was carrying 51 kilos 394 grams of marijuana from Iquique to Santiago. After stopping the first trafficker, police discovered that the destination of the drugs was the San Borja bus terminal in Santiago.  It […]

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Manaus, Brazil: Seven Suspects Detained, Including Former Police Officer

On August 16, 2013 Globo reported that seven people were arrested, once including a former police officer during Operation “Alliance”. The suspects are accused of involvement in drug trafficking activity in the city of Manaus, Amazonas. The investigation began about two months ago in response to complaints by members of the community. During the operation, […]

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João Pessoa, Brazil: 25 Suspects, Including Inmates Detained for Drug Trafficking

Globo reported on August 16, 2013 that 25 people were arrested during Operation Scarface” for drug trafficking in João Pessoa, Paraíba. Five suspects remain escapees. Of the 25 people detained, 20 are inmates. Police report that the gang is accused of interstate drug trafficking, homicide, and conspiracy. The gang is known for killing off their […]

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Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil: Police Discover Arsenal on Cassava Plantation

Globo report on August 16, 2013 that the Civil, Military, and Federal Police located an arsenal on a cassava plantation in the city of São José do Pingador, Mato Grosso do Sul. The police discovered about three thousand ammunition of different calibers as well as firearms buried in a polyethylene drum to store narcotics. One […]

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Penas Blancas, Costa Rica: Police Detain Guatemalan with 202 Kilos of Cocaine

From lainformacion.com on August 14, 2013- The Drug Control Police of Costa Rica (PCD) arrested a Guatemalan who was attempting to transport 202 kilos of cocaine to Nicaragua. The drugs were hidden in a “double wall” in the container of a truck. The drugs were discovered during a routine inspection at the Penas Blancas border […]

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Ponce, Puerto Rico: Authorities Detain Two Dominicans, One Venezuelan, Seize 682 Kilos of Cocaine

From lainformacion.com on August 14, 2013- U.S. authorities arrested two Dominicans and one Venezuelan for carrying 681 kilos of cocaine on a ship 296 kilometers south of Ponce. The operation started when a U.S. Border Patrol plane spotted a suspicious boat and called in the Coast Guard to investigate. Since September 2012, the U.S. Coast […]

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Nicaragua: Navy Seized 3 Tons of Cocaine in the Last Year

From lainformacion.com on August 15, 2013- On the 33rd anniversary of the Nicaraguan Navy, officials reported that from August 2012 to July 2013 it had seized more than 3 tons of cocaine, 19 “narcolanchas” (drug boats), and captured 17 suspected drug traffickers. In addition, authorities seized 4,000 cubic meters of precious wood and 8,932 pieces […]

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Rio Sucio, Colombia: Military Seizes 1.5 Tons of Cocaine from the FARC

From lainformacion.com on August 15, 2013- Units from the Colombian Army and Navy seized 1,558 kilos of high purity cocaine, ready to ship to Panama, in the border town of Rio Sucio, Choco. The operation occurred on the Salaqui River, in the Embera Katio reservation, where Front 57 of the FARC operates, who according to […]

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Puno, Peru: Women Smuggling Drugs to Arequipa Detained

From rpp.com.pe on August 14, 2013- Two women in Puno were detained on a public service vehicle after authorities discovered 4 kilos of cocaine hidden in their backpacks. The vehicle was making driving from Puno to Desaguadero. After preliminary investigations, authorities have determined that the drugs were heading to Arequipa where they would be exchanged […]

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Lambayeque, Peru: Despite Drug Activity, Only 1.7 Kilos of Cocaine Seized from 2006 to 2011

From La Republica on August 15, 2013- Despite being considered a strategic drug trafficking hub for its geographical position, between 2006 and 2011 agents from Divandro only seized 1.7 kilos of cocaine. Drug trafficking experts say that Lambayeque is a key point for drug storage and shipment abroad for drugs coming from La Libertad, Cajamarca, […]

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Londrina, Brazil: Police Operation Combat Drug Trafficking in Border Region

odiario.com reported on August 14, 2013 that 70 federal police officers participated in Operation “Caturra” designed to combat drug trafficking in the region of Londrina near Paraná and Rio Grande do Sul. The investigation, which began in February of this year, has arrested 12 people in total while seizing 600 pounds of marijuana, 60 pounds […]

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Uberlândia, Brazil: Suspects Detained for Selling Synthetic Drugs at Nightclubs

Globo reported on August 13, 2013 that the civil police of Uberlândia confiscated about 260 stamps of LSD (which is believed to have come from India), cocaine, marijuana, loló (numbing fluid mixed with chloroform) and other materials used for drug trafficking. Among the three suspects detained, one suspect was discovered with 50 tablets of ecstasy. […]

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Paraíba, Brazil: Police Arrest 5 Suspects and Seize Drugs

On August 2012, the civil police participated in an operation led by the Delegation of Narcotics Repression (DRE) in João Pessoa, Paraíba. Police arrested five individuals and confiscated 10kg of cannabis, 4kg of crack, and 500g of cocaine. One of the suspects arrested was a dealer within a prison, responsible for conducting drug deliveries. Police […]

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Piauí, Brazil: Police declare Piauí new state for marijuana production

Globo reported on August 12, 2013 that the Civil and Military Police of Piauí conducted its largest seizure in the state, confiscating 1.5 tons of marijuana. Police report that the state of Piauí has become a new producer for marijuana as police over the recent months found several marijuana plantations in the area. A survey […]

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Lima, Peru: Missing Irish Woman Arrested with 5 Kilos of Cocaine, Attempted to Deliver to Madrid

From lainformacion.com on August 11, 2013- Peru’s anti-drug police detained an Irish girl at the Jorge Chavez International Airport for attempting to carry six kilos of cocaine to Spain. She was arrested alongside a British woman who had five kilos of cocaine in her possession. According to the Peruvian press, the Irish woman had been […]

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Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Navy Seizes 537 Kilos of Cocaine North of Islands

From lainformacion.com on August 9, 2013- The Ecuadorian Navy seized 537 kilos of cocaine and arrested three people aboard a small motorboat in the northern waters of the Galapagos. The seizure was the result of coordinated efforts between the Ecuadorian Coast Guard Command and the U.S. Coast Guard. The boat was found 192 miles of […]

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Falcón, Venezuela: Authorities Seize 1.2 Tons of Marijuana in Route to Caracas

From lainformacion.com on August 12, 2013- Venezuelan authorities seized 1,241 kilos of marijuana that was hidden inside a truck carrying fish to Caracas from Maracaibo. The seizure was carried out by members of the Bolivarian National Guard at a highway checkpoint. Two suspects were arrested, the driver and an additional passenger, both Venezuelan. So far […]

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Puyehue, Chile: More than 50 Kilos of Marijuana Seized at Border Checkpoint

From Terra on August 12, 2013- A total of 58 kilos of marijuana, equivalent to 116 thousand doses valued at 58 million pesos was seized by customs officials at the Cardinal Antonio Samoré Border Complex. The drugs were discovered in a truck that had been in Argentina for week. The drugs were found in 77 […]

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San Francisco de Mostazal, Chile: Three Argentines Arrested with 60 Kilos of Marijuana

From Terra on August 12, 2013- Chilean PDI agents seized 60 kilos of marijuana and arrested three Argentine traffickers in the city of San Francisco de Mostazal. The drugs were hidden in the gas tank of their car. According to the authorities, the three suspects crossed the Chile-Argentina border at the Pino Hachado pas in […]

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Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: Passenger Uses Windsurf Board to Transport Cocaine

Terra reported on August 10, 2013 that the Federal Police seized 14.7 kilograms of cocaine hidden within a windsurfing board at the Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre. Police as well confiscated 2,000 euros. The drug was destined to Barcelona, Spain. Police suspected suspicion from the 26-year-old man due to his behavior, the presence […]

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Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil: Police Discover 443 kilograms of Cocaine Hydrochloride

Globo reported on August 9, 2013 that the Federal Police and the Special Border Security force confiscated 443 kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride in Vila Bela Holy Trinity, Mato Grosso do Sul. An aircraft directed to a farm designated for delivery delivered the drug. Police report the amount of drugs seized is valued at around R$20 […]

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Bahia, Brazil: Police Operation Arrests 8 Suspects Part of Drug Trafficking Gang

On August 9, 2013, Globo reported that partnerships between the civil, military and federal police as well the Public Ministry of the State, arrested eight members of a gang suspected to be under the rule of drug lord “Sassá”, the leader of drug trafficking activity in the region of Tancredo Neves and Engomadeira in Bahia. […]

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Maceio, Brazil: Gang Detained for Drug Trafficking and Homicide Charges

Globo reported on August 9th, 2013 that the State Group of Combating Criminal Organizations with the help of the Military Police arrested eleven members of a gang suspected of leading drug trafficking activity in Maceio. The gang is also suspected of numerous murders in the area. Police report the gang recruited teenagers to participate in […]

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Itakyry, Paraguay: Senad Agents Seize 26 Tons of Marijuana near Brazilian Border

From lainformacion.com on August 8, 2013- Paraguayan agents seized 26 tons marijuana in the Itakyry District in the department of Alto Parana near the border with Brazil. The drugs were hidden in three clandestine camps in a wooded area. The seized drugs estimated value was  $13 million in the Brazilian market, where 80% of Paraguayan […]

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Colombia: Record Low Level of Coca Cultivation in 2012

From lainformacion.com on August 8, 2013- According the 2012 Coca Monitoring Report, the cultivation of coca in Colombia was at its lowest level in 2012. 48,000 hectares were cultivated in 2012, representing a 25% reduction compared to 2011. Potential cocaine production fell by 10% to 309 tons. According to UNDOC officials, this report confirms that […]

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Uruguay: Former President Supports Legalization of Cocaine

From lainformacion.com on August 8, 2013- The former president of Uruguay, Tabaré Vásquez, expressed his support for the legalization of cocaine, following the vote in the Uruguayan House that would legalize marijuana pending a vote in the Senate. Vásquez, an oncologist, says that drug use is inevitable and that liberalization of drug policy allows for […]

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Santiago, Chile: 9 Kilos of Liquid Cocaine Found in Whiskey Bottles

From Terra on August 8, 2013- Members of the Southern Narcotics Police Investigation Squad arrested a Peruvian couple in Santiago who had 9 kilos of liquid cocaine in their possession. The cocaine was hidden in bottles of Johnnie Walker Black Label whiskey. The arrests happened in the Recoleta district. The man was arrested and due […]

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Santa Catarina, Brazil: Police Discover Ecstasy Drug Lab

On August 8, 2013 zerohora.clicrbs.com.br reported that an ecstasy lab was discovered in Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis, making Santa Catarina the focus point of synthetic drugs to Brazil. The police report that arresting a gang of students from the Federal University of Santa Catarina for 33,000 ecstasy tablets valued at R$1.6 million is an example […]

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Espirito Santo, Brazil: Lawyer Detained for Drug Trafficking Activity with Prison Inmates

Globo reported on August 6, 2013 that a female lawyer was detained on suspicion for selling drugs and weapons to prisoners at the Maximum Security Penitentiary II of Viana in Espirito Santo. In addition, the police detained two correctional officers, a former agent, and 10 other suspects involved in drug trafficking. The arrests of these […]

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Police Operation Searches Rochina Favela for Missing Man

Globo reported on August 7, 2013 that about 40 officers from the Homicide Division as well as firefighters searched the Rocinha favela in Rio de Janeiro in attempt to locate Amarildo de Souza who went missing on July 14. Police received a tip that the body was somewhere within the favela, far from the Pacifying […]

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Tachira, Venezuela: 86 Kilos of Cocaine Seized Shed Light on New Trafficking Routes

From Noticias 24 on August 6, 2013- Members of the Bolivarian National Guard seized 86 kilos of high purity cocaine at the Guarumito checkpoint in the Táchira state. The drugs originated in Colombia and their destination was the central part of Venezuela. Two suspects were apprehended, one Colombian and one Venezuelan. This incident sheds light […]

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Belén, Honduras: Drug Gang Territory Conflict Leads to Several Deaths

From lainformacion.com on August 6, 2013- Honduran authorities have confirmed the deaths of at least four people, among them one Nicaraguan and one Mexican. The deaths are the result of an apparent territory conflict between rival drug gangs in Honduras, although some have said that the dispute arose over a disagreement over 300 kilos of […]

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Cali, Colombia: 12 Properties with Ties to Sinaloa Cartel Seized by Authorities

From lainformacion.com on August 6, 2013- Colombian police seized 12 properties that belonged to the late drug trafficker Javier Alonso Arias Granoble who worked as a liaison between the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico and gangs in Colombia. The properties included 6 parking spaces, 4 apartments, and two houses in the city of Cali, and were […]

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Cali, Colombia: Government Seizes More than Two Tons of Marijuana from the FARC

From lainformacion.com on August 6, 2013- The Colombian Army seized more than two tons of marijuana in the city of Cali that allegedly belonged to the FARC and was meant to be sent abroad. No suspects were apprehended during the seizure of the drugs which were hidden in the back of a truck. The drugs […]

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Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: Store Owners in Border Cities Fear Marijuana Legalization in Uruguay

Globo reported on August 5, 2013 that storeowners who reside on the Brazil-Uruguay border in Rio Grande do Sul, fear that the possible legalization of marijuana in Uruguay will change the type of tourists visiting the area. Although the Uruguayan legislation states residents of the country can buy the drug, the law will also need […]

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Federal District, Brazil: Sergeant of Fire Department detained for drug trafficking

Globo reported on August 5, 2013 that Silvio José Ribeiro Dias, sergeant of the fire department in the Federal District, was detained after police found him with three kilos of pure cocaine known as “fish scale” hidden inside a vehicle. According to police, the sergeant received the drugs from Ponta Pora, Mato Grosso do Sul […]

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Protest in Response to Uruguay’s Call for Marijuana Legalization

Globo reported on August 4, 2013 that a protest was held at Ipanema beach in Rio de Janeiro in response to Uruguay’s movement towards the legalization of marijuana. Protesters for “Marijuana March” held signs in favor of the legalization of marijuana in Brazil. In addition, demonstrators protested against the governor Sérgio Cabral. Read Article

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Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil: Police Officers Detained for Extortion and Corruption Charges

circuitomt.com.br reported on August 4, 2013 that the civil police arrested six police officers in Cuiaba, accused of involvement in drug trafficking as well as protecting traffickers. Among those detained include chief of the Homicide and Protection of Persons. The chief and his wife are charged with corruption and involvement with trafficking. The remaining four […]

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Russia Offers Anti-Narcotic Aid to Guatemala

From lainformacion.com on August 3, 2013- The Vice President of the Russian Senate, Alexander Torshin, offered his country’s support to combat drug trafficking in Guatemala after visiting the Guatemalan legislature. Torshin stated that his country is willing to share its experiences with fighting drug trafficking and terrorism, and that in the coming months they will […]

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El Alto, Bolivia: Peruvian Drugs Prevented from Reaching Brazil

From lainformacion.com on August 1, 2013- Bolivian police seized 144 kilos of Peruvian cocaine from the car of a Bolivian citizen who was planning to transport the drug to Brazil. The operation was carried out in a Bolivian town on the border with Peru. It is believed that the drugs came from the VRAEM region […]

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Santa Marta, Colombia: Argentine Captured with 23 Kilos of Drugs

From lainformacion.com on August 3, 2013- An Argentine citizen was arrested in the Caribbean city of Santa Marta with 23 kilos of cocaine in his possession. The operation took place in the tourist area of the city. Several agencies were involved with the arrest including the Technical Investigation Corps, the Army, and British drug agencies. […]

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Ypehú, Paraguay: Senad Destroys 34 Hectares of Marijuana with Support from the Brazilian Federal Police

From lainformacion.com on August 3, 2013- Agents from Paraguay’s anti-drug agency, Senad, along with members of the Brazilian Federal Police burned 34 hectares of marijuana plants near the city of Ypehú, Canindeyú some 100 km from the border with Brazil. The operation included 18 parcels of land with marijuana in various stages of growth, some […]

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Venezuela: Authorities have Seized More than 34 Tons of Drugs in 2013

From lainformacion.com on August 4, 2013- According the Venezuelan government, the Bolivarian National Guard of Venezuela has seized 34,889.609 kilos of various drugs in 2013. 14,732.356 kilos of cocaine, 20,129.857 kilos of marijuana, 11.614 kilos of heroin, 11.369 kilos of basuco, and 4.413 kilos of crack. During the entirety of 2012 the Bolivarian National Guard […]

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: 9 Favelas Raided by Police to Combat Drug Trafficking

tribunahoje.com reported on August 2, 2013 that a police operation in nine favelas in the north zone of Rio de Janeiro forced schools and businesses to close, as the operation was an attempt to combat drug trafficking. The favelas raided by police include Cachoeira Grande, Cachoeirinha, Morro do Amor, Gambá, Cotia, Árvore Seca, Barro Preto, […]

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São Paulo, Brazil: 28 suspects detained for supplying drugs within the state

Globo reported on August 2, 2013 that police arrested twenty-eight suspects for drug trafficking in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo. The gang members are accused of supplying drugs in 1500 areas within the state. One of the leaders of the gang is suspected of conducting criminal activity from inside prison. The drugs were supplied […]

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Federal District, Brazil: Largest Cocaine Trafficker in Area Arrested by Police

Globo reported on August 2, 2013 that the civil police arrested the largest cocaine trafficker in Cruzeiro, in the Federal District. The suspect goes by the name “Troa”. During the arrest, the police seized cocaine, cash, and weapons. In addition, the police detained his partner who is accused of trafficking and larceny. Read Article

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Manaus, Brazil: 16 Establishments Closed for Sexual Exploitation and Drug Trafficking Activity

On August 2, 2013, Globo reported that the Federal Police closed sixteen establishments in Manaus used for sexual exploitation of minors, prostitution, and drug trafficking. Operation “Insurance Center” arrested 20 foreigners from Peru, Venezuela, and Colombia who were living in Brazil illegally. During the operation, police discovered a drug refining laboratory as well as families […]

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Manaus, Brazil: Military Police Officer Detained for Drug Trafficking

Terra reported on August 1, 2013 that corporal military police officer of Amazonas, Tony Cleoson Alencar Ladislaus, was detained after police seized marijuana, cocaine base paste, and weapons in his house in Manaus. The civil police report the officer has been under investigation for a year and that he used an ice cream shop as […]

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Rondônia, Brazil: 700 kilos of marijuana seized

Globo reported on August 1, 2013 that the civil police in Rondônia confiscated 700 kilos of marijuana as well as detained 10 suspects accused of drug trafficking, including the leader of the gang. According to police, the traffickers hide the drug in furniture and refrigerators inside a truck to be distributed in Porto Velho, Acre […]

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São Paulo, Brazil: Drug Seizures Increase

Globo reported on July 31, 2013 that the number of drugs seized in Midwest Paulista, São Paulo has increased. Drug traffickers continue to use trucks to transport large quantities. Police report traffickers hide drugs in gas tanks and in the tires. Particular highways have become major targets for police because the drugs enter from Paraguay […]

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Montevideo, Uruguay: House of Representatives Approves Legalization of Marijuana

From Publimetro on August 1, 2013- The Uruguayan House of Representatives passed a bill with 96 votes for and 50 votes against, after 14 hours of debate, that moves Uruguay one step closer to becoming the first country to legalize and nationalize marijuana, pending approval by the Senate. The measure comes with little public support, […]

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Rancagua, Chile: PDI Dismantled Local Drug Trafficking Ring

From Terra on August 1, 2013- Agents of Chile’s PDI successfully dismantled a drug ring that was operating in the capital of the O’Higgins region. The investigation lasted for several months prior to the arrests, following the activities of a man known as “El Guatón Carlos” and his wife known as “La Mary.” The couple […]

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Central America: Mexican Cartels Continue Regional Expansion

From El Cronista Digital on July 29, 2013- According to Gema Santamaria, a Mexican academic, the policies of Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto will have no positive changes for Central American countries dealing with the continued expansion of Mexican cartels. Pena Nieto’s strategy has been to limit drug trafficking violence and crimes of high impact […]

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Nuevo Laredo, Mexico: Capture of Z-40 Could Lead the Sinaloa Cartel to Seek Border Hegemony

From Siwissinfo.ch on July 29, 2013- The capture of the Zetas leader, Miguel Angel Trevino also known as Z-40, could lead to a Sinaloan attempt to consolidate border control. Leader of the Sinaloa cartel, Joaquin Guzman, who has been at large since his prison escape in 2001, could take advantage of the situation and seek […]

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Churintzio, Michoacan: Mexican Vice Admiral Assassinated by Knights Templar

From rpp.com on July 28, 2013- An unidentified group killed Mexican Vice Admiral Miguel Salazar in an ambush in the state of Michoacan. The attack is thought to be the most recent in series of violent attacks in Michoacan perpetrated by the Knights Templar cartel. According to preliminary investigations the vehicle the admiral was travelling […]

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Peru: Government Close to Completing 60% of its Coca Eradication Goal for the 2013

From Tuteve.tv on July 29, 2013- According the chief executive of the National Commission for Development and Life without Drugs (Devida), Carmen Masias, Peru is close to eradicating 60% of its total coca eradication goal for 2013. Peru hopes to eradicate 22,000 hectares while at the same time increasing public support for development and inclusion […]

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U.K. Drug ring with strong ties to Colombia through Ecuador taken down

British and Colombian authorities have seized nearly £4.4 billion (US$7bn) in US securities from an alleged international drug and money-laundering ring, officials said last night. The stocks and bonds were seized in London, along with about £7 million (US$11 million) in cash and drugs such as ecstasy and speed, a Colombian official revealed. The National […]

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Bahia, Brazil: Italian Drug Dealer Detained

Terra reported on July 26, 2013 that Civil Police in Mata de São João, Bahia, detained an Italian drug dealer, who has been living illegally in Brazil for 12 years. Police confiscated 400 grams of cocaine known as “nine-nine” as the purity of the drug is 99%. In addition, police as well arrested an accomplice […]

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Piaui, Brazil: Gang Convicted for Transporting 270kg of Cocaine by Boat

Globo reported on July 25, 2013 that the Federal Court convicted six people who were arrested last year for transporting 270kg of cocaine by sailboat in in the Port of Trapiche in Luis Correia, Piaui. The suspects were caught by the Federal Police in conjunction with the help of the Brazilian Navy. The men face […]

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Ferraz, Brazil: 100 kilos of drugs seized at drug refinery house

Globo reported on July 25, 2013 that the Military Police discovered a drug refinery in an upscale house in Ferraz de Vasconcelos, Sao Paulo. Inside, police seized about 100 kilos of drugs including marijuana and cocaine ready for sale. In addition to drugs, the police discovered two sport cars with an estimated value of R$70,000. […]

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Piura, Peru: Drug Trafficking Organization Disbanded

From rpp.com on July 25, 2013- Police from the Green Squadron in the Castilla district in Peru along with undercover agents were able to dismantle a drug trafficking organization that had been operating in the region. During the raid, authorities seized 660 packages of cocaine base, 100 grams of marijuana, moonshine, illegal cigarettes, and a […]

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La Laja, Bolivia: 400 Kilos of Cocaine Seized, Two Arrested

From La Republica on July 26, 2013- An intelligence group, the Special Force against Drug Trafficking in Bolivia (FELCN), seized nearly 400 kilos of Peruvian cocaine in the city of La Laja, Boliva. The drugs were hidden in the fuel tank of a truck on the road known as Desaguadero. The drugs were destined for […]

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San Bernardo, Chile: Operation Leads to Six Arrests, Contraband Seized

From Terra on July 26, 2013- An operation led by PDI resulted in the arrests of six people on charges of drug trafficking. During the raid, authorities seized cocaine base, marijuana, one firearm, and ammunition. The operation was conducted by prosecutor Karina Encina who requested the warrants for the search of various homes in the […]

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Esmeraldas Ecuador: Police seize 600 pounds of Marijuana

Eluniverso.com reported that Ecuador, considered drug transit country, confiscated 611 pounds of marijuana in a coastal borders Colombia (North), said Thursday the prosecution Ecuador. He said the drug operation, which left no prisoners, was fulfilled in the area of ​​El Rompido, in the province of Esmeraldas, where police gave the stash of marijuana. Read Article

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Paraná, Brazil: Police Report Drug and Counterfeit Seizures in Border Regions

On July 24, 2013 ilustrado.com.br reported that within a year the Battalion Border Police in Paraná confiscated about 2 tons of drugs, counterfeit items valued at R$25 million, and more than five thousand packages of smuggled cigarettes valued at R$1.8 million. Many of the seizures have occurred in border areas of Argentina and Paraguay. Commander […]

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Pope Condemns Latin American Attempt to Liberalize Drug Usage

estadao.com.br reported on July 24, 2013 that Pope Francisco criticized Latin American countries such as Uruguay liberalizing drug usage. After visiting a hospital in Rio de Janeiro, which cares for drug addicts, the Pope labeled drug traffickers as “merchants of death”. Rather than liberalization, the Pope suggested the use of education as a possible solution. […]

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Puno, Peru: Two Detained, Twelve Kilos of Cocaine Seized on Interprovincial Bus

From Peru21 on July 24, 2013- Police arrested two people at the Orjerani checkpoint on the Puno highway after confirming that they were attempting to smuggle 12 kilos of cocaine base on an interprovincial bus. The bus belonged to the bus company called Mi Peru. The authorities stated that the base of operations for the […]

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Pisco, Peru: More than Eight Kilos of Cocaine Seized on Interprovincial Bus

From rpp.com on July 24, 2013- Members of the Drug Enforcement Section and Police Division of Pisco seized 8 kilos 415 grams of cocaine base on an interprovincial bus at kilometer 73 of the Los Libertadores highway. The bus originated in Ayacucho and was heading to Lima. The drugs were disguised in four packages inside […]

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Vina del Mar, Chile: Traffficker Detained, Drugs and Weapons Seized after Two Month Investigation

From Terra on July 24, 2013- After two month of investigations and an anonymous phone call, agents from OS-7 successfully detained drug trafficker Juan Morales, also known as “El Mono Juan.” Officers from OS-7 went to the place where Morales usually carried out the sale of illicit substances. During the operation, authorities seized 230 doses […]

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Laja, Bolivia: Authorities Seize 294 Kilos of Peruvian Cocaine Heading for Brazil

From Cambio on July 23, 2013- Bolivia’s Special Forces in the Fight Against Drug-trafficking seized 294 kilos of cocaine from Peru that was presumably heading for Brazil. The drugs were hidden in the false bed of a truck, and the operation led to the arrest of two individuals with charges of drug trafficking. The drugs […]

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Colchane, Chile: Drug Mule Detained with 10 Kilos of Cocaine on a Bus

From Terra on July 22, 2013- Chilean authorities arrested a Bolivian woman on a bus from Oruro, Bolivia to Iquique, Chile at the border checkpoint in Colchane. The 32 year old woman was arrested with 10 kilos of cocaine hidden in her suitcase. So far this year, Chile’s Carabineros have seized 70% more drugs than […]

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Sierra Gorda, Chile: OS-7 Seized More than 116 Kilos of Drugs, Detained Three Traffickers

From Terra on July 22, 2013- Member’s of Chile’s anti-narcotics police,OS-7, arrested a Bolivian man after his truck rolled over on Route B-25 coming from Calama to Antofagasta. After the wreck in Sierra Gorda, authorities discovered drugs hidden in the vehicle and proceeded to arrest the driver and conduct a controlled delivery of drugs to […]

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Jundiaí, Brazil: Six Detained for Drug Trafficking and Counterfeit Money

Terra reported on July 23, 2013 that the Dise (Precinct Investigations Narcotics) discovered a distribution center in Jundiaí where police seized cocaine, hydroponic marijuana, crack, drugs ready for sale, as well as R$30,000 in counterfeit bills. The value of the drugs is estimated at R$150,000. Police arrested six suspects. Since March, DIse reports that 70% […]

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Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil: “Operation Border” Seizes Drugs and Electronic Devices

Globo reported on July 21, 2013 that the Federal Police Highway Police in conjunction with “Operation Border” seized numerous amounts of drugs and electronics in Mato Gross do Sul on Saturday (20). Seizures occurred in Itaquiraí with 300kg of marijuana confiscated as well as in Ponta Pora with 30 kg of marijuana and 227 electronic […]

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Foreign Passengers Detained at Airport for Smuggling Cocaine

Terra reported on July 20, 2013 that the Federal Police detained two passengers at the Tom Jobim International Airport in Rio de Janeiro, for attempting to transport drugs to Europe and Africa. A Dutch passenger was arrested for smuggling 2 pounds of cocaine destined to Lisbon, Portugal and eventually Amsterdam. The other man, a Russian […]

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Amazonas, Brazil: Suspects Detained for Transporting Drugs in Boat

On July 18, 2013, Globo reported that the Federal Police confiscated 100 kilograms of drugs and detained 8 individuals including Brazilians, Peruvians, and Colombians. Police claim the drugs; hydrochloride, cocaine base paste, and marijuana were hidden in a canoe leaving from Peru to Fonte Boa near Manaus, Brazil. The suspects are currently awaiting trial. Read […]

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Puerto Remolino, Peru: Military Seizes Boat with More than Half a Ton of Drugs

From rpp.com on July 17, 2013- The Joint Command of the Armed Forces announced that last Tuesday the military intercepted a boat that carried 648.1 kilos of cocaine in the Puerto Remolino zone of the VRAEM. During the operation, authorities arrested four people who were transporting the drugs. This operation was part of a set […]

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Camana, Peru: Police Seize 50 Kilos of Cocaine from the VRAEM

From rpp.com on July 16, 2013- Police seized about 50 kilos of cocaine base hidden in the fuel tank of truck at the kilometer 853 marker on the Southern Panamerican Highway in the province of Camana. The drug came from the Valley of the Rivers Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro (VRAEM) and its final destination was […]

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Iquique, Chile: 17 Kilos of Cocaine Found in Spare Tire

From Terra on July 17, 2013- Officials from the Drug Enforcement Unit of Chilean customs intercepted a truck in the city of Iquique that came from Alto Hospicio and was heading to Tocopilla. In a spare tire on the truck authorities found 17 kilos of high purity cocaine hydrochloride. The driver, a 49 year old […]

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Lima, Peru: Spanish, Mexican, Peruvian, and Colombian Traffickers Arrested at Airport

From lainformacion.com on July 17, 2013- During various operations last week, authorities arrested several people on accounts of attempting to smuggle cocaine to Spain. All the arrests occurred at Lima International Airport. In total the amount of cocaine seized during these arrests totaled more than 17 kilos. The drugs were hidden in the traffickers clothing, […]

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Kuna Yala, Panama: Authorities Seize 750 Kilos of Cocaine

From Tele Metro on July 16, 2013- Agents of Panama’s State Border Service, known as SENAFRONT, announced the seizure of 750 kilos of cocaine in the Comarca de Kuna Yala region. The seizure occurred on a 45ft boat with three engines. No arrests have yet been made in relation to this seizure. Read Article

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Nuevo Laredo, Mexico: Navy Captures Los Zetas Leader, Z-40

From El Mundo on July 16, 2013- On Monday, Mexico’s navy captured the leader of the Zetas drug cartel, Miguel Angel Trevino Morales (Z-40), in the U.S.-Mexico border city of Nuevo Laredo. Trevino was captured alongside three other Zetas members, $2 million, rifles, and 500 bullets. Trevino was responsible for some of the worst atrocities […]

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Colon, Panama: Drug Trafficking Tip Leads Authorities to Seize Cuban Missiles Destined for North Korea

From El Pais on July 16, 2013- Last week North Korean ship coming from Cuba was stopped in the Caribbean city of Colon on suspicions of drug trafficking. After two days of inspection, authorities found illegal missiles hidden under a shipment of brown sugar. North Korea is forbidden to participate in the arms trade, aside […]

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Parana, Brazil: Drug Traffickers Detained for Transporting 100 pounds of Drugs

odiaro.com.br reported on July 16, 2013 that the Federal Police in Mauá da Serra arresed two drug traffickers for transporting 100 pounds of drugs from Campo Grande to Curitiba. The suspects; a Brazilian and Paraguayan, showed suspicion when pulled over and questioned by police. The driver claims to receive U.S. $ 12,000 to deliver the […]

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