Bolivia ex-Defense Minister claims drug trafficking interests sabotaged radar project

Former Defense Minister Reimy Ferreira has alleged that drug trafficking interests have sabotaged the implementation of radar systems in Bolivia. Ferreira, who served during Evo Morales' administration, claims these efforts aim to maintain the country as a lucrative illegal corridor for narcotics moving from Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru toward Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.

These statements follow accusations from the current government against Ferreira and three other former ministers regarding alleged economic damages caused by the radar project's failure to function fully despite significant investment and deadline extensions. Ferreira argued that the sabotage originates from middle-level circles rather than presidential or ministerial leadership, noting that Bolivia serves as a unique “blind spot” in South American airspace.

Ferreira also cited historical difficulties, including lack of cooperation from airport administration and resistance from certain ministries that viewed the radar systems as unnecessary. He emphasized that functional radar systems would disrupt the multimillion-dollar aerial transit used by traffickers.