Authorities in Paraguay have uncovered a fake Brazilian police station in Ciudad del Este, located just a few kilometers from Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. This operation was conducted on Thursday, following an investigation by the Paraguayan National Police's Intelligence Department. The authorities believe that the fake station was being used not only for extortion but also as part of a larger scheme to rob cash transport companies.

During the operation, police discovered a well-equipped facility that mimicked a legitimate police unit from Brazil, complete with uniforms, badges, and the São Paulo Civil Police emblem. A total of 14 individuals were apprehended, including six Brazilians, five undocumented Taiwan nationals, and three Paraguayans. Some of those arrested claimed to have been hired to work for a fictitious online casino, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

In addition to the arrests, law enforcement seized approximately 40 electronic devices, including smartphones and tablets, all connected to an internet network. This discovery raises significant concerns regarding the extent of criminal operations in the region and their links to both Brazilian and Paraguayan criminal networks, underscoring the ongoing challenges that both nations face in combatting organized crime.