Two Arrested in Praia Drug Raid: Cocaine and Hashish Seized
The Cape Verdean Judiciary Police (PJ) have dismantled a narcotics operation in the capital city of Praia, arresting two women and seizing a cocktail of illegal drugs including cocaine, cannabis, and hashish.
Details of the Narcotics Raid
In a statement released today, the PJ confirmed that the operation took place last Friday in the Achada de Santo António neighborhood. Officers from the Central Section for the Investigation of Narcotics Trafficking and Organized Crime (SCITECO) carried out the raid following search and seizure warrants issued by the Criminal Investigation Court.
The two suspects, aged 29 and 66, were caught in the act. They face serious charges of high-risk drug trafficking, as well as the conversion and concealment of assets and valuables—a move often linked to money laundering within the illicit drug trade.
Evidence and Seizures
During the search of the residence, authorities discovered a significant quantity of narcotics prepared for distribution. The seizure included:
- 7.51 grams of cocaine
- 5.31 grams of hashish
- 30.99 grams of cannabis
In addition to the drugs, which were already packaged in individual doses for the illicit market, police recovered cutting agents, packaging materials, and drug paraphernalia. Investigators also seized mobile phones, a sum of cash, and silver artifacts believed to be linked to the criminal activity.
Legal Consequences
The two women, both Cape Verdean nationals, appeared before a magistrate for their initial interrogation. The court has taken a firm stance on the older suspect, ordering that the 66-year-old remain in preventive detention at the Praia Central Prison.
The 29-year-old suspect was released under strict conditions, including a ban on leaving the country and a requirement to report periodically to the authorities. The investigation remains ongoing as both defendants await further legal proceedings.
Image: Pexels – Juan Pablo Daniel
