Fernando “Narigón” Vásquez processed as alleged leader of Rosario drug ring

Fernando Sebastián “Narigón” Vásquez has been formally processed and ordered to remain in preventive detention, accused of leading a significant drug trafficking operation in Rosario, Argentina. The decision was issued by federal judge Carlos Vera Barros, who found sufficient evidence to suggest Vásquez held a command role within an organization involved in storing, distributing, and selling narcotics.

Vásquez had been a fugitive for eight years before his apprehension on June 16 in Villa Gobernador Gálvez. His ability to evade law enforcement for such an extended period, despite an existing arrest warrant since 2018, was a key factor cited by the judge in determining a continued flight risk. The arrest was part of an operation by the Special Operations Troop (TOE) of the Santa Fe Police, placing him among the province's most wanted fugitives.

The drug trafficking case is not the only legal battle Vásquez faces. He is also implicated in the provincial justice system for his alleged participation in the November 9, 2024, murders of Andrés “Pillín” Bracamonte, the former leader of the Rosario Central "barra brava" (hooligan group), and his close associate Daniel “Rana” Attardo. This double homicide has cast a shadow over the city's football club.

The federal investigation into Vásquez's drug operation reportedly began following the death of Giuliana Maldován, a 20-year-old woman who died from synthetic drug consumption at an electronic music party on January 1, 2017. Investigators concluded that the drug trade in Rosario involved two complementary organizations, one linked to Cristian Mario “Negro” González and another, allegedly led by Vásquez, which served as a major wholesale supplier of cocaine to González's group. The judicial resolution aligns with the prosecution's request for continued detention.