[REVISION HISTORY]

Nationwide drug seizures and arrests in Ecuador

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2026-08-18 18:59 UTC → 2026-09-09 04:37 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Ecuadorian authorities have expanded their anti-drug efforts through several major nationwide operations, resulting in significant narcotics seizures and arrests. In the Carchi province near the Colombian border, police intercepted a truck near Guagua Negro containing approximately 469.6 kilograms of cocaine. The shipment was notable for its packaging, as 370 blocks were wrapped in stickers featuring the face and name of Norwegian footballer Erling Haaland, alongside images of a soccer ball and the World Cup ~~trophy.~~ trophy; some packages also reportedly featured Lionel Messi. Authorities clarified that this “criminal branding” is used by organized crime to identify the quality or origin of shipments and noted no link to the ~~athlete.~~ athletes. The cocaine has an estimated value of $842,000 in Ecuador and over €17 million in Europe. A Colombian national, María Camila R., was detained and placed in preventive prison. Beyond ~~the Carchi operation,~~ Carchi, law enforcement confiscated 1.5 tons of cocaine—comprising 1,600 blocks intended for Central and North America—in Esmeraldas. In Quito, the “Apolo 36” operation resulted in the arrest of seven individuals and the seizure of 15 kilograms of drugs. ~~Additionally,~~ Interior Minister John Reimberg also reported the deportation of a Colombian national from Carchi ~~who was~~ wanted for kidnapping, homicide, and arms trafficking. In the port city of Machala, authorities intercepted a fruit container containing over two tons of cocaine. According to Minister Reimberg, the shipment was destined for Sweden.

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