The Federal Highway Police (PRF) conducted a significant drug bust on the afternoon of October 10, 2023, seizing over 11 kilograms of cocaine base concealed within the dashboard of a vehicle on the Presidente Dutra highway in Piraí, Rio de Janeiro. The operation took place during a routine inspection around 1:30 PM at kilometer 233 of BR-116, targeting a car driven by a 35-year-old man from Rio de Janeiro.

During the inspection, PRF agents discovered several packages hidden inside the car's dashboard. When questioned, the driver admitted to transporting crack cocaine and stated that he was meant to deliver the drugs to the Complexo do Alemão, a neighborhood known for drug activity in the capital, Rio de Janeiro. He was allegedly going to receive R$ 2,000 for the transport, highlighting the ongoing drug trafficking issues in the area.

This incident underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in Brazil regarding drug trafficking, particularly in areas like Rio de Janeiro where organized crime remains prevalent. The successful seizure of this significant quantity of narcotics reflects the PRF's continued efforts to combat drug-related offenses, emphasizing the importance of vigilance on the highways where such illicit activities often occur.