Paraguay Police Arrest Five Brazilians in "Operation Mirrors," Seize Weapons and Stolen Cars

Paraguayan National Police have apprehended five Brazilian citizens in Canindeyú as part of "Operation Mirrors," a series of simultaneous raids on three properties in La Paloma del Espíritu Santo. The operation, led by Ciudad del Este prosecutor Osvaldo Zaracho, resulted in the capture of three individuals with active arrest warrants in Brazil: Douglas Fernando de Jesús Hartkoff, wanted for intentional homicide, and Luiz Gustavo Alves and Eder Oliveira da Silva, both sought for drug trafficking.

The arrested individuals also include Cleverson Gonçalves and Tayla Gomes de Campos. During the raids, authorities discovered a significant cache of firearms, including 7.62 and 5.56 caliber assault rifles, rifles, shotguns, a pistol with a selector fire and extended magazine, and sniper scopes. Additionally, collectible firearms, airsoft replicas, and various ammunition were seized.

Two high-end vehicles, a black 2022 Toyota Fortuner and a gray 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan, both reported stolen in Brazil, were also recovered. Investigators also confiscated cell phones and a laptop, which will undergo forensic analysis.

The five Brazilians and all seized evidence are now under the control of Paraguay's Public Ministry. Further investigations will focus on determining any connections the group may have to criminal activities in Brazil. The Canindeyú region, bordering Brazil, is frequently cited as a hub for cross-border criminal activity.