Venezuelan authorities arrest suspects in drug trafficking and fraud cases

Venezuelan authorities have conducted two separate law enforcement operations involving organized crime and fraud.

In Maracaibo, the Bolivarian National Guard (GNB) arrested a man known as ‘El Mexicano’ in the La Musical sector. The individual is suspected of being a member of the organized crime group ‘El Caracas,’ which is allegedly involved in extortion, drug trafficking, and ammunition sales. During the arrest, officials seized approximately 1.018 kilograms of suspected cocaine, 43 rounds of 7.62 x 39 mm ammunition, an AK-47 magazine, a portable radio, and a mobile phone. The suspect has been placed at the disposal of the Public Ministry.

In Coro, Falcón state, the National Bolivarian Police (PNB) arrested a 19-year-old man in connection with a massive internet fraud scheme. The investigation follows complaints from over 50 victims who claim they were defrauded by an Instagram account named ‘Brutalísimo,’ which falsely promised to manage and deliver orders from the international retailer Shein. Victims reported paying for merchandise in advance that was never delivered. The detainee is accused of providing his personal bank account to receive the fraudulent transfers. Authorities are continuing to search for the primary organizer and other accomplices.