Uruguay and United States agree on $6.5 million security cooperation

Uruguay and the United States are advancing a new public security cooperation program involving an initial investment of $6.5 million. A delegation of approximately ten officials from U.S. federal agencies, including the FBI, DEA, Secret Service, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Diplomatic Security Service, visited Uruguay to meet with Interior Minister Carlos Negro and other law enforcement institutions.

The agreement aims to strengthen investigative capacities, prevention, and real-time intelligence sharing to combat transnational organized crime, narcotics trafficking, and money laundering. A primary strategic focus is the Port of Montevideo, which is considered a key transit point for cocaine destined for Europe and Asia.

U.S. Chargé d'Affaires Chris Andino expressed concern regarding the regional expansion of the Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC), a criminal organization originating in Brazil. While noting no evidence of a major command structure for the group within Uruguay, officials warned that such organizations often utilize local logistical networks and financial connections to operate.