Investigation Advances on Narco Logistics Network Transporting Liquid Cocaine Inside Bottles

Argentine prosecutors are seeking to bring six individuals to trial for their alleged roles in a sophisticated drug trafficking network that specialized in smuggling liquid cocaine concealed within bottles. The investigation, led by federal prosecutor Mariela Labozzetta of Morón, has concluded its investigative phase for a portion of the case, paving the way for oral proceedings.

The organization centered its operations in Ramos Mejía, a locality in the Buenos Aires province. Here, they recruited individuals, referred to as "mules," to transport drugs. Their primary method involved processing cocaine into a liquid state to fill wine bottles, aiming to discreetly ship the narcotics to the southern regions of the country. Evidence suggests the network also diversified its operations to include the transport of methamphetamines.

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It is proven that said structure acted, at least, from April 2022 to September 2024 and was primarily, though not exclusively, dedicated to activities related to the illicit trafficking of narcotic substances in its different modalities, as well as to the commission of other criminal offenses linked to those maneuvers, such as: threats, use of falsified personal identification documents, buying and selling stolen cars, human trafficking, money laundering, payment of bribes to public officials, among others, with the clear objective of maintaining control of drug trafficking in the already indicated areas of influence and thus ensuring the continuity of the business and the profits generated.

The operation came to light following a control conducted by the Airport Security Police (PSA) in Ushuaia in 2024. This discovery triggered a comprehensive investigation that has now culminated in the request for indictment and trial. According to the Ministry of Public Prosecutor's news website, the structure is believed to have operated from April 2022 to September 2024. Its activities extended beyond drug trafficking to include threats, the use of falsified identification, dealing in stolen vehicles, human trafficking, money laundering, and bribing public officials, all aimed at maintaining control over drug trafficking routes and ensuring continued profits.

The alleged leader of the organization is a Colombian national who remains at large. Prosecutor Labozzetta is pushing to continue the investigation, as indications suggest potential involvement of security force members and provincial officials who may have aided the network. The probe determined that the drugs were sourced from Bolivia, and a clandestine laboratory was established in Ramos Mejía to facilitate the conversion of cocaine into liquid form. The report detailed how the liquid drug was disguised in wine bottles or cosmetic containers and handed over to individuals identified through their precarious economic situations, highlighting the exploitation of vulnerable people.

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In this way, once the cocaine was turned into liquid form, it was disguised inside glass bottles of wine or cosmetic products that were given to certain individuals who had been previously contacted by members of the organization, taking advantage of their precarious economic situation.