The General Customs of the Republic successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle synthetic drugs after discovering two kilograms of methamphetamine hidden inside six baseball bats at Havana's international airport.
This operation was confirmed by Wiliam Pérez González, the First Deputy Chief of the General Customs of the Republic, who announced on the social network X that the operation involved four passengers.
Praising the "skill, audacity, and dedication" of customs officers and the Anti-Drug Authority, the official highlighted their success in detecting the shipment during two consecutive control actions at the airport terminal.
While the identities of those involved and the intended destination of the drugs were not disclosed, authorities assured that the case is under investigation. This effort is part of the enhanced security measures at the country's entry points.
In recent months, Customs has observed a rise in attempts to introduce synthetic drugs via air travel, with increasingly sophisticated methods employed to bypass inspections. The agency reiterated its commitment to fighting drug trafficking and collaborating with both national and international anti-drug forces.
Innovative Concealment Techniques
One of the newer tactics involves concealing drugs in everyday items. Recently, Customs intercepted narcotics hidden inside a tube of body cream and other hygiene products, as demonstrated by this recent airport operation.
Additional techniques include hiding contraband in religious figurines, tuna cans, and gummies, highlighting the advanced level of sophistication among drug networks operating in or towards the island.
Broader Security Measures
Simultaneously, Customs has stepped up monitoring of suspicious currency movements. A recent case of suspected money laundering during an aerial inspection revealed a possible link between drug trafficking and illegal capital flows.
Even seemingly minor infractions, like detecting tobacco in prohibited quantities, are scrutinized as potential fronts for smuggling operations or disguises for illicit substances.
FAQs on Cuban Customs and Drug Smuggling Efforts
How were the drugs concealed in baseball bats detected?
Customs officers, exhibiting notable skill and diligence, detected the hidden drugs during routine inspections at Havana's international airport.
What other methods have been used to smuggle drugs into Cuba?
Smugglers have used everyday items like body cream tubes and religious figurines to conceal drugs, demonstrating the sophistication of these networks.
What measures is Cuban Customs taking to combat drug trafficking?
Cuban Customs has intensified its inspections and enhanced cooperation with national and international anti-drug agencies to counter drug trafficking.