Bolivian Teen Arrested in Brazil for Smuggling 67 Drug Capsules

A 17-year-old Bolivian youth was arrested by Brazilian authorities after being caught attempting to smuggle 67 capsules of cocaine in his stomach. The teen was detained at the Guarulhos International Airport in São Paulo, Brazil, after arriving on a flight from Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia.

According to the Brazilian Federal Police, the young man appeared nervous during routine questioning by immigration officials, raising suspicions. He was then subjected to an X-ray examination, which revealed the presence of foreign objects in his digestive system. The police report stated that the teen eventually confessed to swallowing 67 capsules filled with cocaine before boarding the plane to Brazil.

The youth was taken to a nearby hospital, where he began expelling the drug capsules under medical supervision. The authorities estimate that the total weight of the cocaine seized is approximately 1.2 kilograms (2.6 pounds). The street value of the drugs is estimated to be around 400,000 Brazilian reals (approximately $75,000 USD).

Why this matters: This incident highlights the ongoing issue of drug trafficking in South America and the exploitation of minors as drug mules. It highlights the importance of heightened awareness and collaboration among law enforcement agencies in the region to fight against the illegal drug trade.

The Bolivian teen, whose identity has not been disclosed due to his age, will face charges under Brazil's drug trafficking laws. The Brazilian Federal Police have launched an investigation to determine if the youth was acting alone or if he was part of a larger drug smuggling operation. The authorities are also working with their Bolivian counterparts to gather more information about the case and identify any potential accomplices.

Key Takeaways

• 17-year-old Bolivian caught smuggling 67 cocaine capsules in stomach at Brazil airport
• Cocaine seized weighed 1.2 kg, valued at $75,000 USD
• Teen confessed to swallowing capsules before flight, now facing drug trafficking charges
• Incident highlights drug trafficking issue, need for law enforcement collaboration in region
• Authorities investigating if teen acted alone or as part of larger smuggling operation