Police Operation in Marconi Nets 13 Arrests, Seizes Weapons and Drugs

A significant police operation targeting criminal groups in Montevideo's Marconi neighborhood led to 13 arrests and the confiscation of illicit substances, cash, and weapons. The operation, which involved 10 simultaneous raids on Tuesday afternoon, aimed to dismantle organized criminal activities in the area, according to the Ministry of the Interior.

Among those detained were four minors. Authorities seized over 270 packages of narcotics, more than $50,000 in cash, 15 mobile phones, five surveillance cameras, and five firearms, including two 9mm pistols. Additionally, 43 rounds of ammunition, a bulletproof vest reported stolen, and seven motorcycles were recovered.

The operation involved specialized units, including the Directorate General for Repression of Illicit Drug Trafficking and the Directorate General of Special Operations. This action comes amid growing public concern over security in the capital.

In a separate incident highlighting these concerns, a fast-food cart owner in the La Aguada neighborhood reported being robbed at gunpoint on Monday. The owner expressed deep worry about the lack of safety for workers, stating, "There is no security to work. This government has badly lost control of security."

The armed robber threatened workers and a customer, demanding cash. He fled with approximately $4,000 after firing a shot into the air. No injuries were reported, but the event caused significant tension.