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Illicit trade and smuggling operations rise in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Colombia
In Mexico, the National Alliance of Small Merchants (ANPEC) reports a significant rise in the sale of counterfeit and smuggled cigarettes. This trend is attributed to a 200% increase in the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) that took effect on January 1. The tax hike has created a massive price gap, with legal packs costing over 100 pesos while illicit ones are sold for as little as 15 pesos. Officials warn that this illegal market bypasses sanitary regulations and provides funding for organized crime.
In the Dominican Republic, authorities conducted an inspection in Cabeza de Toro, Bávaro, resulting in the seizure of 5,608 illegal items valued at approximately RD$1.1 million. The operation, led by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM) and CECCOM, targeted 11 commercial establishments. Seized goods included 3,345 smuggled cigarettes, 1,771 premium cigars, 113 unregulated sexual stimulants, and 379 bottles of mamajuana.
In Nicaragua, the National Police reported that between August 24 and 30, 114 people were detained for various crimes across several departments. Arrests included individuals for homicide, robbery with intimidation, and drug trafficking. Authorities seized 7 kilograms of cocaine, 252 grams of crack, 46 pounds of marijuana, several firearms, and various amounts of cash.
In Colombia, police intercepted a shipment of 2,000 9mm caliber cartridges hidden in a cargo truck traveling the Bogotá-Riohacha route. The ammunition was found concealed in boxes under clothing. Two individuals were arrested and remain in custody as authorities investigate the illegal transport of munitions.
Entities
Alianza Nacional de Pequeños Comerciantes · Argentina · Avia Terai · Cuerpo Especializado de Control de Combustibles y Comercio de Mercancías · DIAN · Division Inteligencia Interior · Ejército Nacional · Ejército Nacional de Colombia · Federico Gutiérrez · Fiscalía General de la Nación · Guardia Civil · Italy
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A 46-year-old man in Taranto was arrested for illegal possession of weapons and ammunition, personal injury, and resisting a public official.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Three bullets of varying calibers were found hidden in a box during a search of the suspect's home.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A 44-year-old Tunisian man was arrested in Giardini Naxos for domestic abuse, personal injury, and violating a restraining order.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Police recovered a nine-centimeter folding knife during a search of the suspect's bag.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A 21-year-old man in Belpasso was reported for receiving stolen goods after GPS tracking located a stolen electric scooter at his home.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Officers fired shots at the Toyota Hilux's front tires to stop the vehicle. facundoquiroga.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Four individuals were notified of charges including customs code violations and resistance to authority but remain free. facundoquiroga.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Police seized 106 tires and 50 kilograms of coca leaves following a vehicle pursuit on National Route 16. facundoquiroga.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The pursuit involved a Volkswagen Voyage and a Toyota Hilux. facundoquiroga.com