South America

Brazilian Police Raid Suspected Fake Diplomatic Bag Import Scheme

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Courtroom-sketch editorial illustration of the glass-fronted entrance to Viracopos-Campinas International Airport, with travelers near its doors at night; contextual airport view, not a depiction of the police raid, rendered in warm ochre and slate-blue pastel strokes.

Brazil's Federal Police carried out nine search warrants on Wednesday in Operation Rota Diplomática, targeting a group suspected of using fake diplomatic bags to bring U.S. smartphones and other electronics through Viracopos International Airport in Campinas. Investigators estimate that more than 230 tonnes of goods entered Brazil under the alleged scheme in 2023 and 2024 without regular customs clearance. The 9th Federal Court of Campinas authorized the searches and measures to freeze about R$20 million in assets. Police said the potential offenses include customs fraud, participation in a criminal organization and money laundering.

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