Rivera Customs Seizes $3 Million Contraband from Five Vichadero Businesses

Customs officials in Vichadero recently delivered a powerful blow against illegal trade. They successfully seized more than $3,000,000 worth of smuggled goods. This large-scale operation targeted five businesses in the area.

The inspections revealed an astonishing variety of items. This wasn’t just about small, easy-to-hide goods. Authorities found everything from large household appliances to construction materials. A wide range of beverages was also part of the illegal stash. All these products had entered the country without paying proper taxes or undergoing necessary checks.

Walking through the raided shops, one would have seen many large items. There were refrigerators, various cooking stoves, and even traditional “creole” stoves. Microwave ovens and mattresses were also found. It was like a vast, unauthorized discount store, stocked with goods brought in illegally.

Personnel from the Ministry of Livestock’s Sanitary Barrier team also joined the operation. Their main focus was on food items. They found significant amounts of meat, fresh fruits, and different kinds of cured sausages. This part of the seizure was especially important for public health. Untaxed and unregulated food products can sometimes pose risks to consumers.

A detailed report from the operation listed every item found. The sheer volume of goods shows the scale of the illegal trade.

• 144 cans of energy drinks
• 2,432 cans of beer
• 1,921 liters of soft drinks
• 599 bottles of alcoholic beverages
• 347 bottles of 900 ml cooking oil
• 322 pairs of shoes
• 1,345 kilograms of rice
• 808 kilograms of sugar
• 638 liters of milk
• 170 kilograms of salt
• 343 kilograms of yerba (a type of tea)
• 5,100 kilograms of bínda (likely a type of animal feed or bulk commodity)
• 1,800 eggs

This major bust highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities. It shows that illegal goods come in all shapes and sizes. From basic food items to expensive appliances, illicit networks try to move anything they can. Customs and other agencies continue their work to stop these activities.