Record Drug Seizure in Chile: Over 1,000 Tons Found in Lumber Shipments

Chilean authorities have announced a record-breaking seizure of more than 1,000 tons of drugs hidden within lumber shipments headed to Europe. This significant discovery marks a major victory in the nation’s fight against organized crime.

The operation was a collaborative effort involving the prosecutor’s office, maritime police, and customs officials. The seized shipment consisted of 1,080 tons of wood laced with cocaine and ketamine, drugs valued at approximately $8.3 billion on the European market.

“Thanks to a joint effort by the prosecutor’s office, maritime police, and customs, 1,080 tons of wood laced with various drugs were seized, marking a historic blow to organized crime in our country,” said in a statement from the customs bureau.

Vice Adm. Arturo Oxley highlighted the magnitude of the seizure, comparing its value to 100 years of Chile’s budget.

The customs bureau revealed that illicit drugs are often distributed across more than a dozen international markets, including the United States. Credit was given to canine teams and special technologies pivotal in uncovering the concealed drugs. Images of sniffer dogs alongside the timber were released to emphasize their role in the operation.

“It is worth highlighting the ongoing training of our staff, as well as the work carried out by our canine units throughout the country,” said National Director of Customs Alejandra Arriaza.

A thorough investigation lasting six months led authorities to identify 45 containers from Bolivia containing the tainted lumber. Had the cargo reached its destination, extracting the drugs would require advanced chemical processes in specialized labs.

As more suspicious containers are examined, the total amount of drugs seized may increase. Previously, in April, Brazilian police also experienced a record seizure when a sniffer dog named Hulk inadvertently discovered 48 tons of drugs in Rio de Janeiro.