The National Police of Ecuador reported on Wednesday the confiscation of nearly one kilogram of cocaine at the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil, concealed within natural products intended for Cuba. The drugs were hidden in luggage bound for Havana, packaged in capsules labeled as herbal supplements, allowing them to initially bypass regular checks until a specialized dog detected them, according to a report from local media outlet Expreso.
During a routine inspection in the international cargo area, police officers became suspicious of a palletizer. A narcotics detection dog was brought in, leading to the discovery of a suitcase containing 1,742 capsules in plastic and glass bottles, labeled as natural products. Inside the capsules, powdered cocaine was found.
The confiscated shipment weighed 964 grams, equivalent to 9,640 doses, and was intended for the island, where the street value of the drugs could potentially reach $19,280, authorities noted. The National Police also reported the arrest of the suitcase owner, who will face charges for narcotics trafficking. The individual’s nationality and identity have not been disclosed.
Last week, another smuggling attempt was thwarted at the same Ecuadorian airport when police discovered 1,128 grams of cocaine hidden inside a package supposedly containing a television and toquilla straw crafts, though that shipment was destined for Europe.
In Cuba, authorities have acknowledged a rise in drug use among increasingly younger demographics.
Drug Trafficking Concerns Between Ecuador and Cuba
How was the cocaine disguised at the Guayaquil airport?
The cocaine was concealed in capsules labeled as herbal supplements, allowing it to bypass initial security checks.
What is the estimated value of the confiscated cocaine in Cuba?
Authorities estimate the street value of the cocaine in Cuba could reach approximately $19,280.
What other smuggling attempt was recently reported at the Guayaquil airport?
Last week, police found 1,128 grams of cocaine hidden in a package labeled as containing a television and toquilla straw crafts, intended for Europe.