Paraguay achieves record drug seizures of 44,000 tons in five years

Paraguay has achieved historic levels of drug seizures, totaling 44,000 tons, over the past five years (2018-2023), according to Zully Rolón, the Minister of the National Anti-Drug Secretariat (Senad), in her recent report.

During this period, approximately 30,000 tons of marijuana and nearly 14,000 tons of cocaine were confiscated through over 5,000 operations conducted across the country.

These efforts also resulted in the seizure of over 1,000 vehicles and the apprehension of approximately 2,000 individuals involved in transnational organized crime, with many foreign nationals expelled from Paraguay.

The financial impact on international drug trafficking organizations amounts to approximately US$1.1 billion over the last five years.

Rolón highlighted the successful outcomes of the “A Ultranza PY” operation, which is regarded as the largest crackdown on organized crime in the country’s history.

To date, the operation has led to the arrest of 26 individuals and the indictment of 50 suspects.

Launched in February 2022, the operation encompassed 120 procedures nationwide and resulted in the seizure of assets, both movable and immovable, valued at around US$300 million, which have been turned over to the Paraguayan government.

These achievements demonstrate Paraguay’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes and its effective efforts in disrupting illicit activities within its borders.

The significant quantity of drugs seized and the subsequent arrests and asset seizures underscore the country’s determination to address transnational organized crime and safeguard public safety.