Former councilman arrested for links to Macho drug syndicate

Authorities in Brítez Cué, Canindeyú, have arrested former municipal councilman Juan Antonio Villalba Cardozo, known as “Profe,” in connection with a major drug trafficking organization. The arrest was conducted by SENAD’s GISE group with support from CODI as part of “Operation IGNIS.”

Villalba Cardozo, who had been a fugitive since 2023, is alleged to have provided political protection and logistical support to the criminal structure led by Felipe Santiago Acosta, alias “Macho.” Investigators claim the former official used his residence to shelter Acosta and other gang members for illicit meetings.

Additionally, the investigation suggests Villalba Cardozo was involved in the acquisition and distribution of processed marijuana within the Canindeyú region. During the operation, authorities seized mobile phones for technical analysis.