Cuban authorities have uncovered a new drug trafficking operation at Havana's José Martí International Airport. The illegal substance was cleverly concealed within electric showers and water pumps, according to William Pérez González, deputy chief of the General Customs of the Republic.
The discovery was made possible through X-ray inspections, which revealed irregularities in the imported items. A thorough examination confirmed the presence of narcotics, although the specific type and quantity of the drugs have not been publicly disclosed.
The contraband attempt involved hiding the drugs within internal compartments of electrical devices. Customs officials noted that the electric showers and water pumps had been altered to hold the illegal packages without significantly changing their outward appearance, a strategy aimed at bypassing standard visual checks.
Pérez González emphasized the critical role of technological surveillance and "staff training" in halting such operations. Customs authorities reiterated their warning to the public to steer clear of knowingly or unknowingly participating in illegal activities related to drug trafficking.
Details regarding arrests or the nationality of those involved have not been disclosed, but investigations are expected to continue to uncover the network behind this smuggling attempt.
Using household appliances and electrical components to hide narcotics is not a new tactic in Cuba. Customs officials have previously intercepted drugs hidden in speakers, televisions, and air conditioning compressors. One of the most notorious cases involved liquid cocaine soaked into clothing brought in as accompanied luggage and capsules carried inside travelers' bodies.
According to previous reports from Customs, the majority of these attempts originate from routes in Latin America or the United States, exploiting the steady flow of family shipments to mask illegal cargo. Those involved often employ intermediaries or “mules” who transport the items without full knowledge of their illicit contents.
Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Trafficking at Havana Airport
How were the narcotics detected at the airport?
The drugs were detected through X-ray inspections that revealed irregularities in the imported electric showers and water pumps.
What methods are used by traffickers to conceal narcotics?
Traffickers often hide drugs in internal compartments of household appliances and electrical devices to avoid detection by visual inspections.
What role does technology play in preventing drug trafficking?
Advanced technological surveillance and thorough staff training are essential in detecting and preventing drug trafficking operations.
Where do most drug trafficking attempts in Cuba originate?
Most attempts originate from routes in Latin America or the United States, taking advantage of the constant flow of family shipments.