August 5, 2026
Reading time • 5 min
An underground passage was used to hide and transport contraband goods in a smuggling operation in Foz
The criminal group responsible for the tunnels moved millions in cash and used the illicit proceeds to purchase luxury real estate
On Tuesday morning (4), Foz do Iguaçu was the target of Operation Lastro Oculto 2, launched by the Federal Police as part of an in-depth investigation into the activities of a criminal organization involved in the smuggling and embezzlement of foreign goods, as well as money laundering.
Five search and seizure warrants were executed at various locations along the border. At one of the properties, agents discovered an underground passage connecting businesses. The site was used to store and transport contraband goods from one establishment to another, with the aim of concealing suspicious activity.
The entrance to the passageway had been welded shut, requiring the Fire Department to be called in to ensure safe access to the site. The structure and materials found will be subjected to analysis.
According to the Federal Police, the first phase of the operation identified a group that provided services to Brazilian clients and merchants in Ciudad del Este interested in illegally importing products without paying taxes.
The organization was responsible for the procurement and storage of goods, as well as the preparation of vehicles, transportation by land and river, maintenance of ports and warehouses, and financial control.
Investigations to date point to evidence that part of the proceeds from the crimes may have been used to purchase luxury vehicles and real estate in Foz. There are also suspicions that shell companies were used to manage and conceal the group’s assets, as well as to invest illicit funds in the construction of a hotel in the municipality.
Those under investigation may face charges, according to their individual involvement, for the crimes of criminal organization, money laundering, smuggling, and embezzlement.
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