Woman Arrested in Cape Verde with 4kg of Cocaine at Airport
The Cape Verdean Judiciary Police (PJ) have arrested a 22-year-old Brazilian woman at Cesária Évora Airport on the island of São Vicente after discovering four kilograms of cocaine concealed in her luggage.
Interception of an International Route
The arrest took place last Tuesday following the arrival of a flight originating from Salvador, Brazil. The suspect had traveled through a major transit route, making a layover in Lisbon, Portugal, before landing in the Cape Verdean archipelago. Upon inspection, officers discovered four packages of powdered cocaine hidden inside her bags.
A court has since ordered the suspect to remain in preventive detention as the investigation into drug trafficking charges continues.
A Strategic Hub for Trafficking
Cape Verde, an archipelago located in the central Atlantic, has long been a focal point for international drug enforcement due to its position between South America, Africa, and Europe. Local authorities are increasingly active in dismantling networks that use the islands as a transit point.
This latest seizure follows a string of successful anti-narcotics operations in the region. In July, the PJ successfully dismantled a trafficking network with international ties, leading to 12 arrests. Furthermore, a large-scale international operation in late 2024 resulted in the seizure of 1.6 tons of cocaine in Cape Verdean waters, a haul valued at approximately $50 million.
Vigilance at the Borders
The PJ emphasized that operations to combat drug trafficking remain a priority at the nation’s airports and maritime borders. This arrest underscores the ongoing challenge of “mule” trafficking, where individuals are recruited to transport illicit substances across international lines in personal luggage.
Image: Pexels – Martijn Stoof
