Joint Uruguay-Brazil Operation Nabs 21 in Major Cigarette Smuggling Bust

An extensive joint operation involving police forces from Uruguay and Brazil has led to the arrest of 21 individuals suspected of operating an international cigarette smuggling ring. Dubbed "Alquitrán," the operation targeted a significant criminal organization involved in illicit trade.

The coordinated effort included 19 raids across various locations in Uruguay – Artigas, Salto, and Montevideo – resulting in the seizure of more than 39,700 packs of cigarettes, valued by customs at approximately $2,423,400 Uruguayan pesos. Additionally, two commercial establishments were inspected for customs violations, and vehicles believed to be used in the smuggling activities were confiscated.

Brazilian authorities, specifically the Civil Police, also conducted inspections in Brazil, seizing 31 boxes of cigarettes, equivalent to 15,500 packs, with an estimated value of 77,500 Brazilian reais. The operation also yielded 21 mobile phones and cash in various currencies.

Authorities estimate that the organization illicitly imported around 675 boxes of cigarettes into Uruguay, distributing them across several departments between January 2025 and May 2026. The investigation continues, with prosecutors examining potential links to other criminal activities.