MANAUS, BRAZIL - A joint operation by security forces from Amazonas state, in coordination with police from Mato Grosso state and Peru’s National Police, resulted in the seizure of more than 4 tons of narcotics and a cache of war-grade weapons on the Solimões River, near the municipality of Manacapuru in Brazil’s Amazon region. The operation took place Tuesday night (10).

During surveillance efforts, intelligence officers informed the teams that boats traveling through the border region were transporting high-caliber firearms and a large quantity of narcotics. The shipment was bound for the Amazonas state capital, Manaus, and surrounding areas.

Authorities intercepted two speedboats matching the reported characteristics. As officers approached, they came under gunfire and were targeted with grenades, triggering an exchange of fire. The suspects abandoned the boats and fled the scene.

A search of the vessels uncovered illicit materials, including restricted-use firearms consistent with military-grade weaponry, narcotics and other items. All seized material was taken to the Amazonas Civil Police headquarters in Manaus.

Amazon Agency