In a historic drug bust, Paraguayan authorities have seized over four tons of cocaine, marking the largest confiscation in the nation’s history. The cocaine, with an estimated market value of $240 million, was discovered concealed within a shipment of sugar destined for Belgium. This operation, aptly named “Operation Sweetness,” was conducted by Paraguay’s anti-drug agency, Senad, at Puerto Caacupemi, a river port in the capital city of Asunción.
The operation commenced on Monday, July 15, 2024, when Senad agents began meticulously inspecting shipping containers filled with 40-kilogram sacks of sugar. By the following day, the agents had uncovered the illicit cargo, hidden among the sugar sacks intended for export to Europe.
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña addressed the media on Tuesday, emphasizing the government’s resolve to enhance port security and disrupt the activities of drug trafficking networks.
“I think it sends a signal to organized gangs not to use Paraguay as transit; they’re going to find authorities that are determined and working in a coordinated way,” … “Gangs are not going to be able to avoid all the controls that we are implementing.”
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña addressed the media
This record-breaking seizure is part of a broader crackdown on Paraguay’s burgeoning role in the international drug trade. Historically, Paraguay has served as a key transit point for cocaine produced in neighboring countries such as Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. Despite not producing cocaine itself, Paraguay’s strategic location and extensive river traffic system make it an attractive route for drug traffickers.
In 2019, Paraguayan authorities seized over two tons of cocaine, which had been the largest seizure until now. The recent operation highlights the increasing sophistication and scale of drug trafficking operations in the region.
“International cooperation was key to carrying out these actions in the fight against organized crime,”
Francisco Ayala, spokesperson for Senad
Francisco Ayala, spokesperson for Senad, noted the critical role of global partnerships in these efforts as collaborations with Brazil’s Federal Police and other international agencies have been instrumental in disrupting criminal networks.
Additionally, Paraguay’s government has begun working with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to address the rising challenges posed by synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances. A workshop is scheduled in the coming days to develop strategies for combating these emerging threats.
Paraguay’s geographic position, bordering the world’s largest cocaine producers and boasting a well-established river traffic system, poses significant challenges in the fight against drug trafficking. The country has also seen a rise in the smuggling of other contraband, including cigarettes and luxury goods, further complicating law enforcement efforts.
Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to strengthening port security and enhancing surveillance capabilities. Recent initiatives include plans to purchase advanced radar systems and the reestablishment of canine units to detect narcotics.
The historic seizure of over four tons of cocaine in “Operation Sweetness” marks a significant milestone in Paraguay’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking. It sends a clear message to criminal organizations that Paraguay is not a safe transit route and that authorities are vigilant and determined to curb illegal activities. With continued international cooperation and enhanced security measures, Paraguay aims to disrupt drug trafficking routes and prevent future attempts to smuggle narcotics through its borders.
