Cocaine Seizure in Ecuador Features Erling Haaland Imagery
Updated on: August 13, 2026 / 6:46 AM EDT / CBS/AP
Erling Haaland, a leading figure in soccer, is widely recognized due to his presence on billboards and trading cards. His recent performance, scoring seven goals in four World Cup matches, has amplified his popularity. However, authorities in Ecuador found his image in an unexpected context—printed on green rectangular packages of cocaine.
Police intercepted a truck near the Colombian border, seizing 469 kilograms (1,034 pounds) of cocaine on Wednesday. The driver of the vehicle was apprehended. According to police, anti-narcotics agents acted on an anonymous tip received early Tuesday morning while on the Pan-American Highway. Upon inspection, they uncovered 370 packages concealed within the truck’s false bottom. A video released by the police illustrates these packages spilling out, clearly marked with stickers of Haaland.
Haaland’s image has gained attention not only for his prowess on the field but also for his engaging demeanor and viral video appearances. A top scorer at the World Cup, his appeal transcended the stadium.
Ecuador serves as a major channel for drug trafficking, with narcotics often stockpiled and sent through Central American routes, mainly towards the United States, but also to Europe. During Wednesday’s operation, a woman identified as MarÃa R., holding Colombian identification, was detained near Guagua Negro, close to Tulcan city, 246 kilometers (153 miles) north of Quito.
The shipment’s estimated value stands at $842,000 locally, climbing to over $11 million in the U.S., and exceeding $19.6 million (17 million euros) in Europe. Local criminal groups align with Colombian and Mexican cartels to manage drug routes and distribution. A significant portion of narcotics originates from Colombia, with the remainder from Peru. This year, police recorded 80 tons of drug seizures, a continuation from the 215 tons in 2025 and almost 295 tons in 2024.
Creatively packaged cocaine is a noteworthy trend. Authorities provide no insights on why Haaland’s image adorned the cocaine packages, but traffickers often label merchandise with celebrity images, signifying production networks and target clients. Other sports icons, like Lionel Messi, have also appeared on intercepted shipments.
Distinctive packaging for drug shipments isn’t new. Last year, a Florida beachgoer discovered $500,000 worth of cocaine wrapped in “Yosemite Sam” packaging. Similar discoveries included packages with dune buggies and coca bricks marked with “Nike SB” imitations that surfaced in key areas.