In a significant drug bust on the Castello Branco highway (SP-280) in Porangaba, São Paulo, three men were caught with more than 400 kilograms of cocaine base by the Polícia Rodoviária. The arrest occurred on Sunday when the Tático Ostensivo Rodoviário (TOR) observed suspicious behavior from the individuals at a hotel parking lot near the highway. After conducting a search, authorities discovered 422 kilograms of the drug hidden within one of the vehicles' cargo compartments.

The arrested men face serious charges of drug trafficking, which highlights an ongoing battle against narcotics in the region. Following their apprehension, the cocaine was seized and transported to the Federal Police Department in Bauru. This operation reflects the heightened vigilance of the authorities in tackling drug-related offenses, demonstrating a proactive approach to maintaining security along the highways in São Paulo state.

Moreover, recent statistics from the São Paulo state government indicate a rise in drug seizures in the interior regions, climbing by 1% over the past year. This trend is indicative of enhanced enforcement efforts and possibly an escalating issue with narcotics in these areas as law enforcement intensifies its operations against trafficking networks.