On Tuesday morning, the Federal Highway Police (PRF) in Brazil apprehended approximately 102 kilograms of marijuana at the BR-010 highway, specifically at kilometer 248 in Imperatriz, Maranhão. The operation began when officers attempted to stop two vehicles that were traveling in close proximity but were ignored by the drivers, who sped off instead. The police initiated a tactical pursuit following both cars.

One of the vehicles was stopped a few kilometers later, where the driver provided conflicting information about the purpose of his trip. Upon checking the police records, officers discovered that he had a criminal background. The second vehicle evaded the initial pursuit but was later intercepted by another PRF team. In a search of this second vehicle's trunk, officers discovered three boxes containing a total of 96 kilogram-sized blocks of marijuana, confirming their suspicions about illegal drug trafficking activities in the region.

This incident highlights ongoing challenges with drug trafficking in Brazil, especially along major highways where such operations frequently occur. The PRF’s proactive measures aim to detect and dismantle drug distribution networks, which are often interconnected with organized crime. The continuous efforts against drug trafficking not only aim to secure highways but also promote a wider public safety agenda in combating crime across the region.