Paraguay Launches Massive Operation Against Cocaine Trafficking and Money Laundering Networks
Asunción - In a move that has sent shockwaves through Paraguay’s political establishment, authorities have launched Operation A Ultranza PY, a massive operation against cocaine trafficking and money laundering networks.
The Largest Operation in Paraguayan History
The operation began on February 22 and involves international cooperation with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Europol, and authorities from Uruguay. So far, over $100 million in assets have been seized, including:
- Nine aircraft
- 12 properties
- Several companies
A Complex Network of Politicians, Business Leaders, and Drug Traffickers
The investigation has revealed a complex network of politicians, business leaders, and drug traffickers who have been working together to traffic cocaine from Paraguay to Europe. The network is believed to be linked to powerful figures within the Colorado Party, which has dominated Paraguayan politics for decades.
Implicated Officials
Among those implicated in the scandal are:
- Former Interior Minister Joaquin Roa, who was removed from his post after it was revealed that he owned a $4 million yacht bought from one of the accused money launderers.
- Senator Sergio Godoy’s partner, who is the daughter of Masi Job Von Zastrow, a pilot and retired army colonel accused of transporting drugs.
Alleged Connections to Current President and Former President
The operation has also exposed alleged connections between:
- Current President Mario Abdo Benítez
- Former President Horacio Cartes, both members of the Colorado Party. Cartes has long been accused of links to drug trafficking and money laundering networks, and his family’s tobacco company has been implicated in a separate investigation.
Experts’ Assessment
Experts believe that while Operation A Ultranza PY may temporarily disrupt cocaine flows from Paraguay, it will ultimately have little impact on the country’s drug trafficking problem.
“The masterminds and financiers behind these networks remain at large,” said new Interior Minister Federico González. “Operations like this only reach the middle commands of the drug trade.”
Political Crisis
The investigation has sparked a political crisis in Paraguay, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from the government. The country’s anti-drug agency has been criticized for its handling of the case, and several officials have been accused of protecting their colleagues.
Bringing Those Responsible to Justice
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to dismantle the network and bring those responsible to justice. However, critics say that without a more comprehensive approach to addressing corruption and drug trafficking, Paraguay will continue to be plagued by these problems.