Bolivia and Brazil Launch Binational Border Shield Against Organized Crime

Bolivia and Brazil have activated a binational border security shield, "Secure Borders," to combat the escalating violence attributed to multinational criminal groups. The joint strategy aims to enhance state presence, improve control over critical border points, and coordinate actions against organized criminal organizations that have fueled a wave of crime in the region.

The initiative was officially launched in Guayaramerín, a town in the Vaca Díez province of Beni, which has become a focal point for criminal activity. The launch event was led by Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz Pereira and included high-ranking Brazilian officials, such as the Minister of Justice and Public Security, Wellington Lima e Silva, and the national commander of the Federal Police. The plan will extend its reach to the departments of Pando, Beni, and Santa Cruz.

Key objectives include combating drug trafficking through a coordinated response with Brazilian law enforcement. A police contingent from Diprove, Narcóticos, and Interpol has already been deployed in Guayaramerín to gather intelligence, conduct operations, and bolster security. The plan also seeks to identify and apprehend foreign nationals with arrest warrants or Red Notices issued by Brazil, thereby restoring security for border residents and merchants.

Local authorities and civic leaders have emphasized the urgent need for increased personnel, specialized equipment, and trained officers. Javier Velarde, president of the Guayaramerín Civic Committee, highlighted the understaffing of critical units like Umopar and called for the involvement of the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces in support and control tasks. The legislative branch has pledged to monitor the implementation of the "Secure Borders" plan, recognizing the importance of binational cooperation and the potential advantages of Brazil's greater resources and protective legislation for its officers.

“

We need more people.