The second phase of Operation Gontijo, conducted by the Civil Police in Divinópolis, Brazil, led to the seizure of drugs and money from at least eight individuals suspected of being involved in international drug trafficking as well as illegal arms and medicine trade. The operation involved executing eight search and seizure warrants and was coordinated by the Narcotics Combat Delegation (Decna) of the State Narcotics Combat Department (Denarc). The investigation remains ongoing, and the names of the suspects were not disclosed, preventing contact with their defenses for further comment.

According to police sources, the suspects utilized a method known as the 'caipira route' to smuggle illicit goods from Paraguay into Minas Gerais. They reportedly marketed the drugs through social media by sharing images and videos, which underscores the interplay between modern technology and traditional drug trafficking methods. This tactic demonstrates a significant shift in how drug cartels communicate and operate in Brazil.

This operation is part of a larger investigation that began earlier in May when authorities faced resistance from one of the suspects. The ongoing pressure from law enforcement in the region aims to disrupt the fundraising and distribution networks of drug trafficking organizations, which pose a serious social and economic threat to the communities affected by these illegal activities.