In Paraguay’s major penitentiary, Tacumbú, a joint police and military operation caused 12 deaths.
This national prison saw an intense intervention named “Veneratio”. The operation aimed to regain control from the Rotela Clan, a dominant criminal group.
The Paraguayan National Police, along with Military Forces, led this effort. They focused on restoring order in the prison.
During the operation, 11 inmates and one tactical officer, Martin Mendoza, lost their lives. Mendoza belonged to the Lince tactical group.
Following the operation, the Ministry of Health reported 54 injuries. These included 14 National Police agents and 40 prisoners.
They received medical attention at various healthcare facilities. Moreover, mobile clinics treated an additional 40 individuals outside the prison.
This group consisted of police, military personnel, and inmates. Thus, the total injured reached 94.
A significant outcome of “Veneratio” was the recapture of Armando Javier Rotela. He is the leader of the Rotela Clan.
Rotela managed the prison’s activities from a special section, overseeing drug trafficking and other crimes.
Authorities transferred Rotela to the military prison of Viñas Cue in Asunción. They considered his high risk level for isolation.
Additionally, six other dangerous inmates were moved to a police prison. This operation marks a crucial step in addressing criminal control within Paraguayan prisons.