World Cup Fever Reaches Peruvian Police; Agents in Mascot Costumes Arrest Drug Suspect

In a creative sting operation, Peruvian police in San Juan de Lurigancho, Lima, embraced the "World Cup fever" by donning costumes of the official mascots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Agents from the Grupo Terna of the Green Squadron used outfits inspired by Clutch, the eagle, and Maple, the moose, to infiltrate the neighborhood and approach a suspected drug dealer's residence without raising suspicion.

The unusual tactic allowed officers to get close to the target property in the Las Flores neighborhood. Once inside, they apprehended Carlos Cabrera Heredia, 48, also known as "Pichichi." Police reported that Heredia was allegedly preparing illicit substances for distribution within his home, using newspaper clippings for packaging.

The raid uncovered a significant quantity of drugs, including over 2,500 packages of basic cocaine paste and several packages of marijuana. Authorities also seized cash, the amount of which was not specified, and a loaded firearm hidden in a bedroom drawer. According to police, Heredia has a criminal record for drug trafficking and has previously served nine years in prison for similar offenses.

The operation highlights an innovative approach by law enforcement to combat drug dealing. The suspect and all seized evidence were transferred to the San Juan de Lurigancho Criminal Investigation Department (Depincri). Public Ministry representatives are overseeing the proceedings and the formalization of charges for alleged illicit drug trafficking. Heredia remains in police custody pending further investigation.

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The strategy allowed the agents to approach the property without arousing suspicion among the neighbors and to carry out the intervention by surprise.