# Contraband seizures in South America

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/contraband-seizures-in-south-america
> Updated: 2026-10-21T21:32:11.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Law enforcement and customs agencies across South America have conducted several large-scale operations to intercept illegal shipments.

In Uruguay and Brazil, authorities intercepted significant quantities of smuggled Paraguayan cigarettes. In Paysandú, Uruguay, police seized nearly 5,000 cartons of cigarettes from a vehicle, leading to the detention of two individuals. In Iporã, Brazil, State Highway Police seized approximately 1,000 packages of cigarettes following a high-speed chase in which the driver fled the scene.

In Venezuela and Bolivia, officials targeted different types of contraband. Venezuelan authorities in Táchira state seized over six tons of illegally imported sugar and powdered milk from Colombia to protect local producers. Meanwhile, in Tarija, Bolivia, the National Customs service and police intercepted 95 tons of cigarettes transported in five heavy-duty trucks, representing a significant loss in tax revenue.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-21: Authorities in Venezuela and Bolivia seize large contraband shipments

Authorities in Venezuela seized six tons of sugar and milk from Colombia, while Bolivian customs intercepted 95 tons of cigarettes, involving millions in unpaid taxes.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/authorities-in-venezuela-and-bolivia-seize-large-contraband-shipments

### 2026-10-19: Authorities seize large quantities of smuggled Paraguayan cigarettes

Police in Uruguay and Brazil seized large quantities of smuggled Paraguayan cigarettes during separate operations in Paysandú and Iporã.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/authorities-seize-large-quantities-of-smuggled-paraguayan-cigarettes

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Cite as: Contraband seizures in South America. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/contraband-seizures-in-south-america