The Dominican Republic has made history with its largest cocaine seizure, highlighting an alarming trafficking route to Europe
Dominican Republic Seizes Record-Breaking Cocaine Shipment Bound for Europe
Dominican Republic Seizes Record-Breaking Cocaine Shipment Bound for Europe
Authorities uncover 9,500 kg of cocaine hidden in a banana shipment in Santo Domingo
In a groundbreaking operation, Dominican Republic authorities have announced the largest cocaine seizure in the nation’s history, uncovering a staggering 9,500 kilograms of the drug concealed in a shipment of bananas. The illicit cargo was discovered at a port in Santo Domingo and is believed to be destined for Europe. The cocaine, which was packed away in 320 bags, has an estimated street value of approximately $250 million (£196 million).
The National Drug Control Directorate has launched an investigation into the matter, with at least ten individuals connected to the port now under scrutiny. Preliminary investigations indicate that the bananas, used as a disguise for the drugs, originated from Guatemala. Communications chief Carlos Denvers revealed that there were attempts to transfer the illicit cargo to another container, preparing it for transport to Belgium.
This haul is significantly larger than the previous record set in 2006 when authorities seized 2,580 kilograms at the same port. The recent bust underscores a growing trend, as monitoring agencies report that the Caribbean region is re-emerging as a crucial conduit for drug trafficking from Colombia to Europe.
Recent studies indicate that cocaine consumption is on the rise in various Western European nations, including the UK, Belgium, France, and Spain. A United Nations report from 2020 revealed that Europe comprised 21% of the global cocaine user population. This surge in use has dire implications, as evidenced by escalating drug-poisoning deaths in England and Wales, which recently reached a 30-year peak, driven by a 30% increase in fatalities linked to cocaine.
As the Dominican Republic grapples with these pressing issues, the country’s law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to combat the burgeoning drugs trade.
The National Drug Control Directorate has launched an investigation into the matter, with at least ten individuals connected to the port now under scrutiny. Preliminary investigations indicate that the bananas, used as a disguise for the drugs, originated from Guatemala. Communications chief Carlos Denvers revealed that there were attempts to transfer the illicit cargo to another container, preparing it for transport to Belgium.
This haul is significantly larger than the previous record set in 2006 when authorities seized 2,580 kilograms at the same port. The recent bust underscores a growing trend, as monitoring agencies report that the Caribbean region is re-emerging as a crucial conduit for drug trafficking from Colombia to Europe.
Recent studies indicate that cocaine consumption is on the rise in various Western European nations, including the UK, Belgium, France, and Spain. A United Nations report from 2020 revealed that Europe comprised 21% of the global cocaine user population. This surge in use has dire implications, as evidenced by escalating drug-poisoning deaths in England and Wales, which recently reached a 30-year peak, driven by a 30% increase in fatalities linked to cocaine.
As the Dominican Republic grapples with these pressing issues, the country’s law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in their efforts to combat the burgeoning drugs trade.
