Ecuador Seizes 1.2 Tons of Cocaine Hidden in Banana Shipment to Latvia

Ecuadorian authorities have intercepted a significant drug shipment, seizing 1.2 tons of cocaine concealed within a container of banana puree destined for Latvia. The discovery was made in Guayaquil, a major port city, and confirmed by the Minister of the Interior, John Reimberg, via his official social media account.

During an operation, police officers discovered 35 suitcases packed inside the shipping container. These suitcases contained 1,215 packages of cocaine, which authorities estimate could yield approximately 12 million doses. The street value of this substantial haul is significant, with estimates placing it at around $36.1 million for the U.S. market and $56.3 million for the European market.

Minister Reimberg highlighted that this seizure is part of ongoing anti-narcotics operations conducted at Ecuadorian ports. These ports are recognized as strategic points for identifying and intercepting illicit substances being smuggled via containerized cargo. The container and three seals were retained as evidence to aid in the ongoing investigation into the drug trafficking operation.

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La Policía Nacional de Ecuador realizó una importante incautación al decomisar 1,2 toneladas de cocaína ocultas en un cargamento de puré de banano destinado a Letonia.