Footage from the scene shows thousands of yellow-wrapped packages stacked under police guard as officers and sniffer dogs secured the area. Officials confirmed the massive haul was discovered during an operation targeting criminal networks operating in the city.

“Never before has such a volume been seized, approximately 48 tonnes of drugs. It is a historic record,” said Luciano, commander of the Dog Operations Battalion of the Military Police of Rio de Janeiro State.

The drugs were found in the Complexo da Maré after a Belgian Malinois sniffer dog named Hulk detected narcotics hidden beneath a water tank. Officers later uncovered a sealed bunker inside an abandoned building where the large shipment had been stored.

A new poll published by El Tiempo places Gustavo Cepeda in the lead ahead of Colombia’s 2026 presidential election with 34.5% support. He is followed by Paloma Valencia on 22.2%, while Abelardo De La Espriella trails with 15%. The survey reflects an increasingly competitive political landscape, with significant fragmentation among opposition figures. Analysts suggest the results highlight shifting voter preferences and early consolidation around leading candidates. With the election still months away, the figures remain fluid but indicate a strong старт for Cepeda’s campaign. The poll also underscores the importance of alliances as candidates seek to broaden support.

Colombia strengthens leadership with CELAC-Africa forum

Colombia has hosted a high-level forum between the CELAC and African representatives, reinforcing its diplomatic leadership role. According to the Foreign Ministry, the initiative aims to deepen cooperation in trade, sustainability and political dialogue between both regions. Officials described the meeting as a milestone in South-South relations, positioning Colombia as a bridge between Latin America and Africa. The forum also focused on shared challenges such as climate change and economic development. Authorities stressed the importance of multilateralism in addressing global issues. The event is part of Bogotá’s broader strategy to expand its international influence.

Birth rate in Antioquia falls to lowest level in 18 years

New data reported by DANE shows that births in Antioquia dropped to their lowest level in nearly two decades during 2025. The decline reflects broader demographic trends across Colombia, including lower fertility rates and changing social dynamics. Experts attribute the drop to economic uncertainty, increased access to education and shifting family planning choices. The figures raise concerns about long-term impacts on the labour force and economic growth. Authorities are monitoring the trend as part of national demographic planning. The data highlights a significant transformation in population patterns within the region.

Four Clan del Golfo suspects arrested in major operation

Colombian authorities have captured four alleged members of the Clan del Golfo wanted by the United States on drug trafficking charges. The operation was carried out by national police in coordination with international agencies, marking a significant blow to the criminal network. Officials stated that the suspects were involved in large-scale narcotics operations linked to transnational routes. The arrests form part of ongoing efforts to dismantle organised crime structures in Colombia. Authorities emphasised continued cooperation with US law enforcement. The case underscores the persistent challenge posed by drug trafficking groups.

Dispute grows over claims in Uribe assassination case

Tensions have escalated following accusations related to the assassination of Miguel Uribe Uribe, with Ivan Cepeda demanding concrete evidence to support recent claims. The controversy has reignited political debate, with differing factions disputing interpretations of historical responsibility. Cepeda criticised what he described as unfounded allegations and called for a fact-based approach. The issue has drawn renewed public attention to one of Colombia’s most emblematic political crimes. Analysts warn that the dispute could deepen existing political divisions. The case remains a sensitive topic in the country’s historical memory.

Agents from the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD), working with the Public Prosecutor’s Office and state intelligence agencies, seized 700 packages of suspected cocaine during an operation at the Caucedo Multimodal Port in Boca Chica, Santo Domingo province. Authorities profiled multiple containers in transit and identified suspicious images in one shipment. A detailed inspection revealed 14 bales containing the packages, hidden inside a container loaded with grapes. The container originated in Chile and passed through Colombia and Ecuador, transiting the Dominican Republic before heading to Belgium, Germany, Rotterdam, and the United Kingdom, where it was scheduled to be unloaded. The seizure occurred shortly after President Luis Abinader attended the “Shield of the Americas” summit in Miami, where a 17-country coalition against drug trafficking was announced.

PLD could trigger a 2028 runoff

The Dominican Liberation Party (PLD) is positioning itself to potentially f orce a presidential runoff in 2028 , which would be the first in nearly 30 years. After its 2020 election defeat, the party has intensified grassroots mobilisation and internal restructuring to rebuild its base. Party leaders aim to prevent any candidate from surpassing 50% in the first round, increasing the chances of a second-round vote. A possible Gonzalo Castillo–Margarita Cedeño ticket could split votes between the ruling PRM and the People’s Force (FP), reshaping the political landscape. Meanwhile, FP leader Leonel Fernández faces a strategic dilemma, as another presidential bid could divide the opposition vote further, complicating potential alliances despite a limited municipal pact between the two parties in 2024.

MPD slams leaders’ silence on Trump’s Spanish remark

The Dominican Popular Movement (MPD) criticised what it described as the “complicit silence” of several Latin American presidents after US President Donald Trump made a dismissive remark about the Spanish language during the “Shield of the Americas” summit. Trump reportedly joked that he would not learn Spanish, saying he did not have time to learn “your damn language.” The MPD called the comment offensive to the history, culture, and identity of Latin America and the Caribbean, noting that Spanish is spoken by more than 500 million people worldwide. The group also condemned the lack of response from leaders at the summit, arguing that none publicly challenged the remark.

Abinader at Trump’s Americas summit: energy talks with US, Bolivia ties

President Luis Abinader used the Shield of the Americas Summit in Miami, hosted by US President Donald Trump, to hold two key bilateral meetings : one with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright on energy cooperation and another with Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz Pereira to open new diplomatic and trade ties. The summit gathered more than a dozen Latin American and Caribbean leaders and focused on the creation of a new military coalition to combat drug cartels and organised crime in the hemisphere. The initiative will be led by Kristi Noem, recently appointed Special Envoy for Operation Shield of the Americas, in what analysts describe as part of Washington’s broader strategy to strengthen security and energy partnerships in the region.

PRM strengthens structure in Monte Plata ahead of 2028

PRM provincial president in Monte Plata, Víctor Pichardo, held a series of meetings across the province to strengthen the party’s structure ahead of internal processes and the 2028 elections. Accompanied by Secretary General Rafael De Luna, he visited several municipalities to organise grassroots members and promote the party’s “Verify Yourself” membership update initiative. Pichardo said the effort aims to consolidate the PRM’s base and ensure the party is prepared to retain power in future elections.

The video appeared days after Trump unveiled the coalition at an event in Florida alongside leaders from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago.

Trump said the initiative was designed to curb drug cartels and transnational gangs, which he described as an “unacceptable threat” to national security and one that could only be defeated by “unleashing the power of the militaries.” 

Xinhua’s animated clip, however, cast the plan in a very different light.

The satire appears aimed at Washington’s long-standing role as a security power in the Americas, suggesting that U.S. interventions can themselves fuel instability.

The video also reflects the increasingly sharp messaging battle between Washington and Beijing over influence in Latin America.

Trump has repeatedly vowed to restore what he calls American leadership in the hemisphere and push back against China’s growing economic presence in the region. 

Beijing has expanded trade, financing and infrastructure investment across Latin America in recent years, often filling gaps left by declining Western development funding.

While Washington frames its new coalition as a security partnership against drug trafficking and organised crime, Chinese officials have warned against what they see as a return to Cold War-style power politics in the region.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said over the weekend that Beijing’s engagement with Latin America is focused on trade and development and is not directed against any third party.

“The international stage of the 21st century should no longer be a stage for the old dramas of the 19th century,” Wang said.

U.S. officials, meanwhile, argue that initiatives such as the Shield of the Americas are aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and improving security across the hemisphere.

“We want our hemisphere to be safer, to be more sovereign, and to be more prosperous,” U.S. special envoy Kristi Noem told regional leaders during a working meeting following the launch.

The seizure included 105 boxes of Pethidine containing 1,045 bottles, 31 boxes of Morphine Sulphate with 310 bottles, and 44 boxes of Fentanyl holding 440 bottles, the Authority said. Seven suspects were arrested in connection with the case.

DCEA said the medicines are legally used in hospitals to manage severe pain, but warned that when diverted from authorised channels, they can be abused and may cause addiction.

In Tanzania, opioid medicines are regulated under the Drug Control and Enforcement Act and the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Act, which designates the Medical Stores Department as the only authorised importer and distributor of narcotic medicines.

The Authority said the bus interception came during broader nationwide operations in January and February 2026, which it said resulted in the seizure of 9.93 tonnes of illicit drugs, the confiscation of 1,795 bottles of controlled medicinal narcotics , and the destruction of 87.5 acres of cannabis farms. It said 151 suspects were arrested, while six vehicles and 29 motorcycles were impounded.

In a statement issued on February 25, the ZRP highlighted the convictions as part of its anti-drug campaign and thanked the public for supporting law enforcement efforts.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that crime does not pay,” the police said, adding that the two former players were “arrested, convicted and sentenced… for dealing in dangerous drugs (dagga),” local news portal Pindula quotes .

Amidu previously played for CAPS United and South Africa ’s Kaizer Chiefs, while Mhlanga is a former Dynamos player.

Footage, taken by Viory, from the property shows extensive decay, with collapsed roofs and vegetation overtaking what was once a symbol of wealth and power during Escobar’s rise in the cocaine trade. The estate, named after Escobar’s daughter, continues to attract visitors, even as it stands abandoned and marked by the violence associated with his criminal empire.

Authorities said the auction represents a symbolic victory of the state over organised crime. The sale follows other measures to repurpose confiscated assets, including the transfer in 2025 of land from another Escobar property to rural women affected by Colombia’s armed conflict , as part of a reparations and agrarian reform programme.

Petro said renewed communication between the two sides has created space for Washington to better understand Colombia’s approach to tackling drug trafficking. He argued that dialogue now allows US authorities to grasp the scope of his government’s anti-narcotics strategy, which he described as broader than traditional enforcement-led policies .

Relations between the two leaders deteriorated sharply in early 2026 following a series of public exchanges. Trump described Colombia as a “sick country” and suggested military intervention to combat drug trafficking, comments that Petro rejected by calling for national mobilisation and warning that Colombia would defend its sovereignty. Ties began to stabilise after a phone call on 7 January, paving the way for Petro’s upcoming visit to the White House.

Trump said Colombia remained a major source of cocaine entering the United States and described Petro as hostile to US interests, issuing a blunt warning as tensions between the two governments continued to rise.

Petro had earlier argued that the United States had historically “invaded” and taken territory that should belong to Latin America . He also defended Colombia’s role in the war on drugs and warned Trump against damaging nearly two centuries of diplomatic relations, cautioning him not to “awaken the jaguar”.

The exchange comes amid broader regional friction linked to US sanctions on Venezuela, drug trafficking policy, and shifting diplomatic dynamics between Washington and Latin American governments.

Authorities say the syndicate was operating large-scale drug-processing laboratories hidden inside residential homes and industrial buildings. Among the properties raided was a three-storey bungalow that had been converted into a drug lab.

Police seized massive quantities of cocaine, ketamine and MDMA in both liquid and powder form, along with chemical equipment used to process and package the drugs. Investigators estimate the drugs could have supplied more than 60 million users.

According to the police, the syndicate had been active since April and was supplying drugs to overseas markets. One suspect is believed to have acted as a chemist, while others managed storage and processing sites. The foreign women arrested were described as partners of the male suspects.

In addition to the drugs, police seized several vehicles and other assets as part of the investigation. The suspects remain in custody as authorities continue to track possible links to international trafficking networks.

In 2019 , Malaysian authorities seized nearly 3,700kg of ketamine and cocaine worth about $161m in the country’s biggest drug haul to date. Malaysia has, over the years, become a key transit point for illegal narcotics, with authorities seizing record amounts of crystal methamphetamine in the past year.

Tse was handed a non-parole period of 10 years in the County Court of Victoria after admitting to conspiring to traffic large quantities of illicit drugs within Australia. With credit for time already served, he could walk free in just over five years.

Prosecutors said Tse attempted to move 20 kilograms of methamphetamine — valued at around 4.4 million Australian dollars — between Sydney and Melbourne over a 12-month period from March 2012 to March 2013. 

His conviction followed an Australian Federal Police (AFP) probe that targeted Sam Gor, the transnational crime syndicate he was accused of leading.

Sam Gor, also known as “The Company,” has been linked to industrial-scale production and distribution of meth across the Asia-Pacific region. At its height, Australian authorities believe it was the country’s largest supplier of the drug, pushing tonnes of product through a vast international network of traffickers.

Tse’s fall began in 2021, when Dutch police arrested him at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport at the request of the AFP. He spent months contesting extradition before being sent to Australia in late 2022 to face charges.

His sentencing brings to a close more than a decade of investigative work. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the outcome marked the conclusion of “one of the most high-profile investigations in the AFP’s history ,” describing it as a testament to the force’s global reach.

While Tse did not face charges relating to the full spectrum of Sam Gor’s alleged activities, his conviction represents a symbolic victory for Australian authorities, who have long viewed him as a central figure in the region’s drug trade.

Law enforcement agencies across Asia, Europe and North America have spent years trying to dismantle the syndicate, which they allege operated with a level of sophistication comparable to the world’s most notorious cartels.

For now, the man once regarded as the most influential meth trafficker in the Asia-Pacific is behind bars in Melbourne. But authorities say the wider fight against the networks he helped build is far from finished.

By admitting guilt, Guzmán López acknowledged his role in coordinating the trafficking of vast quantities of narcotics, including cocaine, heroin and fentanyl, from Mexico to the United States, operations overseen by a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel known as “Los Chapitos.” Under the terms of the plea deal, he will cooperate with U.S. authorities and return to court for sentencing on a date set by the judge.

One of the most startling admissions was Guzmán López’s involvement in the alleged 2024 abduction and delivery to U.S. custody of another cartel leader, Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada a move that reportedly deepened fractures within the cartel and triggered violent reprisals among rival factions.

Prosecutors say the guilty plea represents a major blow to the cartel’s infrastructure , and may help authorities better trace drug routes, money flows and cartel networks. While Guzmán López faces a minimum of 10 years in prison under the plea agreement, some legal observers believe his cooperation could spare him a life sentence.

With another son of “El Chapo”, Ovidio Guzmán López, already having accepted a similar plea earlier this year, the latest confession compounds pressure on the Sinaloa Cartel and signals a growing success for U.S. efforts to dismantle its leadership.

These numbers come at a time when fentanyl-related overdoses and trafficking networks have become major international issues, prompting governments to strengthen monitoring and public health responses.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Narcotic Drugs Report 2024 notes that synthetic opioids, especially fentanyl, remain one of the fastest-growing drug threats globally.

According to the report, fentanyl’s spread is driven by two key factors: its extremely high potency and its increasing integration into illegal drug markets.

The substance is often mixed with heroin, methamphetamine, or counterfeit pills, creating dangerous combinations that users may not recognise.

The graphic above highlights a distribution pattern that many may not expect. While the U.S. is well known for its fentanyl crisis, European countries account for significant portions of global consumption:

Smaller shares are found in countries such as Russia, the UK, South Korea and Austria, while 21% of global consumption falls under “other countries.”

In the United States, fentanyl has become the leading cause of overdose deaths, according to USAfacts, which tracks national opioid data. The organisation reports that more than 74,000 overdose deaths in 2023 were linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

A Sunday Vanguard investigation has revealed that Sokoto, Kwara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, Kogi, and Niger are now major strongholds of armed groups blending local banditry with foreign jihadist combat styles. The report shows that foreign fighters fleeing instability in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have joined Nigerian bandit cells, strengthening their operational sophistication. Unlike Boko Haram or ISWAP, these networks have no rigid structure, instead operating through kingpins, forest-based camps, and tribal affiliations. Groups like Lakurawa and Mahmuda are prominent, but hundreds of micro-cells shift leadership frequently to avoid detection. This fluidity has enabled seamless cross-state attacks with no consistent patterns, worsening insecurity across the northwest and north-central regions.

Kogi church abductions

A newly established Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Ejiba, Yagba West (Kogi State) was attacked during Sunday service, triggering panic as worshippers fled under gunfire. The pastor, known locally as Orlando, was kidnapped alongside his wife and several congregants. Residents described the ordeal to Vanguard as “terrifying” and said the bandits stormed the community without warning. The number of abducted worshippers remains unconfirmed, and the police have yet to issue an official statement.

Drug bust

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dismantled a Lagos-based drug distribution network that packaged Canadian Loud (a potent cannabis strain) in designer cookie packs, snack wrappers, and teddy bears for sale via WhatsApp. Two masterminds, Deji Adesanya and Olubiyi Majekodunmi, were arrested during a raid in Lekki, where officers recovered 5 kg of Loud ("Loud" is a slang term commonly used for high-quality, potent cannabis ) and large quantities of fake packaging, the Punch reports. In a separate operation, NDLEA arrested a major dealer, Philip Ucheka, in Mushin while he was receiving 110 pouches (55.6 kg) of Loud. Three delivery vehicles were also seized. 

$12.4 million National Assembly complex funds

Rights group SERAP has filed a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and the National Assembly Service Commission over alleged failure to explain the whereabouts of ₦18.6 billion allocated for the NASC office complex. The 2022 Auditor-General’s report flagged concerns about potential misappropriation, including payments to an unknown or fictitious contractor. The Guardian reports that SERAP is seeking a court order compelling full disclosure of procurement records, contractor identities, and tender documents. The organisation said, “Nigerians have the right to know the whereabouts of the ₦18.6 billion.”

Osun politician Adeoti dumps Aregbesola, quits ADC

Former Osun SSG Moshood Adeoti has severed ties with Rauf Aregbesola and withdrawn from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) after reports that the party plans to hand its 2026 governorship ticket to former Speaker Najeem Salam. Adeoti, once Aregbesola’s ally but later suspended from APC for “anti-party activities,” said leaving the ADC and Omoluabi Progressives was “difficult but necessary.” The ADC leadership reportedly favours zoning the governorship ticket to Osun West, where both Adeoti and Salam come from. Still, Salam was chosen as the consensus candidate, triggering the fallout, The Nation reports.

The remarks followed Trump’s announcement that he intends to grant a full pardon to former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernández, who is currently serving a 45-year sentence in the United States for drug-trafficking and weapons-related offences. Trump also used his social media platform to endorse Hernández’s National Party ally, Nasry “Tito” Asfura, ahead of Sunday’s vote. The vice foreign minister stressed that a pardon would not alter Hernández’s record, insisting that the convictions remain a matter of public record.

Torres Zelaya denounced what he sees as contradictions in Trump’s position, citing past US-led anti-drug operations in the region. “Another thing that we find interesting to mention is that it carries a great load of irony and even contradiction that President Trump raises the banner of the fight against drug trafficking to generate actions against other countries, and in the case of Honduras, he is asking for the vote for the main drug lord of Central America , Mr Juan Orlando Hernandez,” he said.

He also argued that Trump’s endorsement of Asfura sends a clear political message. “It is no longer us saying it, Trump already said it: voting for Nasry Asfura is voting for Juan Orlando Hernandez. Voting for the National Party is voting for the narco-state to return and for the cartel to govern Honduras again,” he warned. Honduras is set to elect a president, members of the National Congress, representatives to the Central American Parliament, and local authorities, with more than six million citizens eligible to vote.

Hernández, once a close U.S. ally, was found guilty in a New York federal court in 2024 for facilitating the movement of cocaine into the United States during his presidency. His conviction marked one of the most significant cases in Washington’s anti-narcotics efforts in Central America. By signalling that he will overturn that judgement, Trump has reopened a debate about accountability, foreign policy and the power of presidential pardons.

The timing has stirred particular controversy in Honduras, where voters are preparing for a tightly contested presidential election. Trump has openly backed conservative candidate Nasry “Tito” Asfura, and critics argue that announcing the pardon so close to the vote could influence the outcome. The move has therefore raised broader questions about external pressure on domestic politics, especially in a country already grappling with corruption, security concerns and deep political divisions.

Supporters argue that the measure could strengthen efforts against narcotrafficking routes that cut through the Caribbean and increasingly impact local communities. But others see the decision as part of a long pattern of U.S. strategic interests in the region. “I think it is more about United States interests than about helping our country,” said resident Ricardo Jimenez to Viory, adding later: “I would not really support the President’s decision because it goes against our rights, it goes against our Constitution, which is always to have everything under government control.”

Concerns over foreign influence were echoed by other residents who questioned Washington’s intentions in a region where geopolitical tensions intersect with domestic security needs. “If there are other objectives, I really do not know. But you know that the United States always has an ace up its sleeve,” said Virginia Ramirez.

The government insists the authorisation is strictly temporary and limited to refuelling, transport and technical support, stressing that no foreign military operations will take place on Dominican soil. Still, the decision has sparked a broader national discussion, one that reflects the Dominican Republic’s longstanding tension between reliance on international security partnerships and the desire to safeguard its sovereignty in a region where external powers have long shaped the rules of engagement.

Torres said Mexico requires urgent international cooperation to address what he characterised as a deepening erosion of law and order. Speaking from the capital’s legislature, he delivered a direct message to foreign partners, stating: “And here from the Mexico City Congress, we call upon the international community, the European Parliament, and the US Congress to raise your voice on what's going on in Mexico. Unfortunately, the Lopez Obrador regime left a narco state, and there are a lot of Mexicans begging for help.”

His comments come at a time of escalating political tension between Mexico and the United States. Washington has issued increasingly forceful warnings about drug trafficking networks, with US President Donald Trump suggesting potential strikes or even deployment of personnel, proposals firmly rejected by President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration. Mexico’s government has accused critics of using security challenges for political purposes, insisting that the country’s institutions remain strong.

Torres also criticised Mexico’s handling of recent protests , pointing to clashes between riot police and members of the “Gen Z” movement earlier this month. He argued that the scenes, widely circulated on international media, damaged the country’s reputation and reflected poorly on federal decision-making. According to Torres, the government failed to protect young demonstrators’ rights, undermining public trust and projecting instability to the world.

Referencing the Global Organised Crime Index 2025, the legislator noted that Mexico now ranks among the countries most affected by criminal networks, with high levels of corruption and violence linked to organised groups. He argued that the country’s vulnerability is being exacerbated by officials embedded in corrupt systems, and reiterated his call for greater international scrutiny as Mexico attempts to confront its security challenges.

Hegseth praised the deployment of Stryker platoons working alongside US Border Patrol agents as part of efforts to tighten security along the Mexican border, framing the operations as essential to protecting national safety. The secretary also announced the new Defence Medal, intended to formally recognise personnel serving in these missions.

The comments come amid rising tensions with Mexico, whose president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has reiterated that the country will not permit the deployment of US troops on its territory under the banner of anti-narcotics operations. Despite this, multiple US media outlets report that Washington has already begun planning for a mission that would send American troops and intelligence officers into Mexico to target cartel networks more directly.

Meanwhile, Washington has acknowledged carrying out dozens of strikes on alleged Venezuela n drug-smuggling vessels since September, in operations that have reportedly killed at least 70 people. Venezuela has denied the accusations of trafficking and dismissed the military actions as “imperialist”, accusing the United States of pursuing destabilisation and attempting to force political change in the country.

“The Chinese government agreed on a plan to stop fentanyl precursors,” Patel said at a White House briefing, describing his trip to China last week. “These substances are now banned, and they will no longer be utilised by the Mexican drug trafficking organisations or any other [drug trafficking organisations] around the world to make this drug.”

“Essentially, President Trump has shut off the pipeline that creates fentanyl that kills tens of thousands of Americans,” he added.

Patel arrived in Beijing on November 7 and stayed for about a day, Reuters reported. It was the first visit by an FBI director to China in over a decade, where Patel met his Chinese counterpart to address the issue directly.

In exchange for China’s actions, Washington halved US tariffs from 20 percent to 10 percent on Chinese goods linked to the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid claimed an estimated 48,422 American lives last year, compared with 76,282 in 2023, according to the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.

On Monday, China’s Ministry of Commerce said the country would adjust its list of drug-related precursor chemicals and require licences for exports of certain chemicals to the US, Canada and Mexico .

China’s National Narcotics Control Commission also issued a circular calling on exporters to follow international conventions and “laws and regulations of importing countries, especially high-risk countries such as the United States, Canada, and Mexico.” It urged them to ensure overseas customers “fulfil import legal procedures in accordance with their own national laws and regulations.”

Cabello went on to describe the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as “the biggest drug cartel in the world ”, and dismissed accusations about the so-called Cartel de los Soles — which Washington alleges is led by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and senior military officials — as an “imperialist narrative” aimed at justifying US interference in the region.

Last August, the United States government offered a reward of up to $50 million for information leading to the arrest of President Maduro, a move Caracas has repeatedly condemned as an act of aggression.

Cabello’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between Venezuela and the United States, as Washington expands its operations in the Caribbean Sea under the pretext of countering drug trafficking and transnational crime .

Maduro, who has been the Venezuelan president since 2013, is locked in a conflict with Trump stemming from Washington’s growing presence in the Caribbean . 

A number of Venezuelan boats, accused by Trump of carrying drugs, have been sunk in the Caribbean in the past months.

Trump had even threatened a land attack to foil “a lot of drugs coming in from Venezuela.”

Despite the US-Venezuelan tension getting fatal, Maduro insisted there was nothing to fear. 

"What are they afraid of, if it's not me? It's people standing tall in battle, Bolivarian Chavistas, masters of their own destiny, who will never be humiliated and who will defeat imperialism in any of the threats they attempt against our beloved homeland," he said.

Venezuela responded to US provocations by activating a defence plan on its coasts, which involves 27 territorial operations that would be employed in the event of a direct attack from Washington. 

Fishermen in Las Cuevas say the heightened military presence is intimidating and dangerous. “I feel terrified, very terrified, knowing that anything can happen,” Karl Hernandez, a local fisherman, told Viory.

Their concerns rose after an October 14 airstrike by a US military aircraft killed six people aboard a small vessel in international waters near Venezuela ’s Sucre region. Among the victims were Trinidadian nationals Chad "Charpo" Joseph and Rishi Samaroo. The US claims the boat was part of a drug trafficking network.

However, families in Las Cuevas insist the men were returning home from a fishing trip and accuse the US of carrying out extrajudicial killings. “He could be whatever, but he is still my grandson,” said Christine Clement, grandmother of Chad Joseph. “For me, nothing would matter. That cannot bring life back. It would only show the world what is happening.”

Despite local outrage, Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar publicly backed the US operation.

“This offensive of threats seeks to strip our people of their revolution, their power, and return us to the shadows of imperial domination,” Maduro said. “Whatever the threat may be, and whenever it comes, I always tell the people: nerves of steel . Calm, prudence, and maximum unity in action.”

The president also dismissed international criticism, labelling him a dictator, referencing his working-class roots in the barrios of Caracas and distancing himself from elites trained abroad. “I wasn’t trained at the School of the Americas, Harvard, or Langley,” he said. “I was trained in the high schools and neighbourhoods of Caracas - El Valle, 23 de Enero, Catia, Propatria, El Cementerio.”

Maduro concluded with a plea for de-escalation, calling on both regional leaders and the people of the United States to reject militarism and support peace. “Enough of threats, enough of militarism, enough of fascism. Respect the people’s right to peace,” he said. 

The United States has deployed warships and fighter jets in the region since August, citing efforts to combat transnational narcotics operations.

Community members gathered in the streets holding banners and chanting against Rio’s governor, Claudio Castro, whom they accused of ordering excessive violence . Witnesses say several victims had already surrendered before being shot. “We are not defending criminals, we are defending justice,” said resident Claudia Vitalino. “Police officers do not have the power to kill people, they need to learn that,” she told Viory.

Others demanded transparency from the authorities, calling for the release of autopsy reports and police camera footage. “Where is the evidence to say that all those bodies lying in the street were really criminals?” asked resident Reis. “The police are made to protect only the rights of the bourgeoisie, not us.”

Authorities have yet to release a full report on the operation or confirm the number of deaths.

“It was a massacre with several premeditated killings, those where there is intent to kill,” said Alex Castro, a resident of the community. “Mothers have lost their children , wives their husbands, and children their parents. The only thing we ask for is peace.”

Neusa, another resident, expressed frustration at the state’s repeated use of violence while failing to invest in long-term solutions. “The State knows how to make us cry, because we are mothers. But the State doesn’t come with projects,” she said. “Everything that happened today should not have happened,” she said.

The community is still reeling, with reports that several bodies remain in the forested areas surrounding the favela. Residents have taken it upon themselves to organise searches, with some travelling by motorcycle deep into the woods to recover the dead.

Claudia, who witnessed one of the killings, described how a man who had already surrendered was executed. “He said, ‘I surrender.’ That’s what he did. And they shot him anyway,” she said. “Not even criminals should be killed. This shouldn’t be happening in our favela.” 

The operation has once again put Brazil’s militarised policing strategies under scrutiny, especially in poor, predominantly Black communities that say they are treated as enemy territory.

“They want to end violence in the favela, but who robs more?” asked resident Adailton. “They rob more than we, the poor. They even want to cancel our 13th salary, but instead of filtering their own thefts, they come to oppress us.”

So far, authorities have not released an official death toll or detailed account of the operation.

The measures, issued by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), block any property or assets owned by Petro, his wife, and his son, Nicolás Petro Burgos, within US jurisdiction. The sanctions also prevent them from conducting any international transactions involving American financial systems.

Tensions between the US and Colombia have been mounting since September, when Washington removed Bogotá from its list of partners cooperating in the fight against drug trafficking.

The US revoked Petro's visa following his appearance at a pro-Palestinian protest in New York during the UN General Assembly that same month.

“The drugs coming in by sea are like 5% of what they were a year ago — less than 5 percent,” Trump said. “So now they’re coming in by land. And even the land is concerned, because I told them that’s going to be next.”

Trump suggested that he might seek congressional backing for further measures. “We may go to the Senate. We may go to Congress and tell them about it, but I can’t imagine they’d have any problem with it,” he added. “What are they going to do? Say, ‘We don’t want to stop drugs pouring in’? They’re killing 300,000 people a year. I think that’s the real number.”

The comments come amid heightened U.S.–Venezuela tensions following several U.S. strikes on what officials described as “narco-boats” linked to drug trafficking operations. Washington has accused President Nicolás Maduro’s government of facilitating narcotics smuggling, while Caracas has denounced the U.S. actions as “modern-day imperialism” and an attempt to seize Venezuela’s natural resources.

Pressed by a reporter about congressional briefings and whether the U.S. would seek a formal declaration of war , Trump replied that Washington would act without necessarily asking Congress for a declaration. “I think we're just going to kill people that are bringing drugs into our country… we're gonna kill them, you know, they're gonna be like, dead, okay?” he said.

The president also suggested plans for the United States to take steps against narco-groups operating in the region and defended recent operations that he said had weakened criminal networks. He framed the actions as necessary to protect U.S. communities from the harms of illicit drugs, citing mass deaths tied to synthetic opioids in recent years.

The U.S. Constitution vests war powers in Congress, and international law generally requires that the use of lethal force comply with strict rules on necessity, proportionality and accountability.

“The U.S. federal government does not allow Colombian cannabis to be exported, which could have been a great opportunity to reduce these ‘red zones’,” he said, referring to regions hit hardest by drug-related violence .

Petro contrasted Washington’s stance with the scale of its domestic opioid crisis, saying, “They are essentially supporting a mafia inside the United States that produces fentanyl… consumed within the U.S. with an effect that multiplies by 30 the deaths that cocaine used to cause, reaching 100,000 deaths a year.”

The Colombian leader, who has sought to redefine his country’s relations with the U.S., framed the issue as one of double standards, arguing that the same nations calling for drug reform continue to impose trade barriers that hurt developing economies. “Look at what happens with the ‘green,’ the cannabis product hasn’t been produced for three years; it has been abandoned,” Petro said.

These strikes, which the U.S. characterises as part of an “armed conflict” against cartels, have triggered diplomatic fallout with countries in the region, particularly after one incident left civilian survivors and no clear judicial process. Amid this backdrop, Ecuador’s message signals a shift toward closer cooperation with Washington’s security agenda, even as it raises questions over sovereignty and regional power dynamics.

Noboa’s endorsement sits in contrast to other regional leaders who have warned against external intervention. By linking Ecuador’s anti-drug campaign to U.S. strategy, his government may be seeking both security support and international legitimacy. Analysts suggest this alignment could deepen Ecuador’s role as a strategic partner in the hemisphere’s security architecture.

Nonetheless, the move invites scrutiny. Critics argue that harmonising too closely with U.S. policy may expose Ecuador to the controversies surrounding extrajudicial operations and may shift focus away from domestic reform and human rights concerns.

Ultimately, Ecuador’s public signal of partnership reinforces the global stakes of Latin America ’s narcotics supply routes. In an era where Washington presses allies to share the burden of the fight, Quito’s statement may mark a critical moment in regional cooperation, or an intensification of old tensions under a new guise.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced on Saturday, October 11, that authorities had intercepted 2.7 tonnes of cocaine on a speedboat allegedly bound for Costa Rica. “Without killing anyone. Without firing missiles,” Petro wrote on X, claiming five Colombian nationals were captured alive. He described the operation as evidence of Colombia’s ability to combat drug trafficking without resorting to violence .

But Costa Rica’s Minister of Public Security, Mario Zamora, disputed Petro’s version. He said the boat was not heading for Costa Rica, as Petro claimed, and that the seizure was conducted by Costa Rica’s Coast Guard in cooperation with the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Zamora also corrected the figures, saying 2.37 tonnes of cocaine were confiscated, and that the crew consisted of two Colombians and three Costa Ricans, not five Colombians.

In response, Petro insisted that “nobody is lying,” sharing an official statement from Colombia’s National Police asserting that the cocaine belonged to dissident groups of the FARC. However, the report aligned with Costa Rica’s version regarding the number of detainees, listing three Colombians and two Costa Ricans.

The disagreement unfolds as Colombia questions Washington’s military presence in the Caribbean, which the US says is part of its anti-narcotics strategy. Former Costa Rican president Laura Chinchilla urged both nations to restore direct dialogue, recalling a time when bilateral cooperation on security was “excellent.” Minister Zamora, however, was blunt in his response: “We talk to the DEA, not to Petro.”

Speaking on state television, he described the flyover as “a threat to national security” and warned that Venezuela would mobilise its forces if attacked.

The incident comes amid a significant U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean. In September, Washington deployed 10 F-35 fighter jets, eight warships, and a nuclear submarine to Puerto Rico under what it says is an operation to disrupt narcotics trafficking.

U.S. forces have since sunk several boats allegedly linked to drug smugglers, leaving at least 14 people dead, according to official reports.

President Nicolás Maduro has denounced the U.S. operations as a cover for regime change and an attempt to control Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. In response, Caracas has staged military drills involving warships, helicopters, and 2,500 troops, and Maduro has said he is preparing a decree to declare a “state of external unrest.”

The confrontation underscores escalating tensions in the wider Caribbean, where Washington’s efforts to counter drug trafficking intersect with Maduro’s campaign to rally domestic support against what he portrays as U.S. aggression.

According to court records in Texas, Espert allegedly received $200,000 in February 2020 from a trust connected to Fred Machado, a fugitive accused of drug trafficking, and Debora Lynn Mercer-Erwin, who is currently serving a 16-year prison sentence in the United States for narcotics , money laundering, and fraud.

Milei, however, dismissed the reports as recycled accusations. “They did this in 2019, they did it in 2021. It’s a methodology — smear campaigns to create noise during elections,” he said. The president argued the timing of the revelations is politically motivated and urged observers to await the outcome of US judicial proceedings.

He also linked the allegations to what he described as broader “political franchises” used by opponents in Latin America , accusing Argentina’s opposition of resorting to “tricks” whenever they feel threatened. “My hope is that over time people recognise this modus operandi,” he added.

The controversy adds to growing scrutiny of Milei’s inner circle, as the president has also been forced to defend his sister, Karina Milei, against separate corruption allegations. With less than a month until the elections, the dispute underscores the volatile mix of judicial investigations and political battles shaping Argentina’s campaign season.

President Gustavo Petro has denounced recent US airstrikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean as an “act of tyranny,” warning that criminal proceedings could follow if Colombians were among the 17 reported dead. Speaking to the BBC in New York, Petro argued that stopping vessels does not require lethal force and accused Washington of humiliating South Americans. President Donald Trump defended the strikes as necessary to curb fentanyl smuggling, while Democratic lawmakers and UN experts have questioned their legality, calling them possible extrajudicial executions.

US delegation walks out of Petro’s UN speech

The United States delegation left the hall during Petro’s address at the United Nations, where he criticised the Trump administration for decertifying Colombia’s anti-narcotics record and for the Caribbean bombings. The Colombian leader accused Washington of spreading “lies” about drug seizures, stressing that his government extradited over 700 traffickers without resorting to missile strikes. The State Department responded briefly, saying its delegation’s actions “spoke for themselves”.

Peace talks with Clan del Golfo begin in Qatar

Colombia has opened peace negotiations with the Clan del Golfo, a powerful criminal group with roots in paramilitarism. The talks, held in Qatar, focus on disarmament in exchange for judicial benefits. Chief negotiator Álvaro Jiménez said the group’s main income now comes from illegal gold mining and stressed that leaders recognise they are at their “peak” and risk decline. The cartel, with 6,000–7,000 members, has already suffered major setbacks, including the arrest and extradition of former commander “Otoniel” in 2022.

Earthquake shakes Venezuela and Colombia

A 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck western Venezuela late Wednesday, September 24, rattling Colombian border cities including Cúcuta and Bucaramanga. The Colombian Geological Service confirmed the epicentre was in Mene Grande, Venezuela. No casualties or damages have been reported, and authorities ruled out tsunami risk for the Colombian coast. Residents across both countries reported alarm, though tremors are common in the region due to tectonic activity.

US investment in Colombia declines

Foreign direct investment (FDI) from the United States into Colombia has fallen for the second year in a row, reflecting strained relations and economic uncertainty. Central Bank figures show US investment dropped 15% in the first half of 2025, from US$2.66 billion to US$2.26 billion. While the United States remains Colombia’s top investor, accounting for 34.5% of inflows, the decline forms part of a broader 15.2% fall in total FDI last year, hitting mining, oil, and manufacturing sectors hardest.

Among the haul were 51 tonnes of methamphetamine, including a record 297 million meth pills (known as yaba), along with heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, and chemical precursors used in drug manufacturing.

Operation Lionfish-Mayag III

Codenamed Operation Lionfish-Mayag III , the crackdown ran from 30 June to 13 July. Its coordination hub was based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where specialised officers worked in real time with international partners to target the manufacturing, trafficking, and smuggling of synthetic drugs. 

Authorities also dismantled a major Darknet syndicate in India known as Ketamelon, seizing LSD blots, ketamine, and digital assets worth USD 87,000. Investigators said the group was responsible for over 600 shipments in just 14 months.

In Myanmar, police intercepted two vehicles, one hiding 22 kg of heroin behind pineapples and another carrying 5.25 million yaba pills. A follow-up house raid uncovered an additional 4 million pills. Meanwhile, in the Lao PDR, officers seized 3.9 tonnes of methamphetamine and 10 production machines, arresting two suspects.

In Mexico, authorities confiscated more than 190,000 fentanyl tablets and 1.7 tonnes of methamphetamine, while also requesting an urgent Interpol Purple Notice to warn member states about new fentanyl precursors that criminals are using to bypass existing regulations.

Interpol Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza warned that the volume of seizures underscores the danger synthetic drugs pose, “The drugs trafficked by transnational criminal networks fuel violence, cripple economies and endanger public health. Each successful seizure highlights the power of law enforcement working together to protect lives and dismantle these threats.”

The operation resulted in 386 arrests, including a man under an Interpol Red Notice suspected of running a large-scale meth smuggling ring into Incheon National Airport. He was arrested in Cambodia and is awaiting extradition to South Korea.

Colombia, the world ’s largest producer of cocaine, has been under growing scrutiny despite expanding aerial and manual eradication efforts. The government has highlighted record levels of coca crop destruction this year, but U.S. officials remain sceptical about long-term progress. A negative ruling could lead to the suspension of roughly $450 million in assistance for security, development, and technical cooperation.

Analysts point to three possible outcomes: full certification, decertification with a waiver that preserves aid, or outright decertification without exceptions. While the first scenario would strengthen Bogotá’s position, the latter two would send a sharp signal of U.S. disapproval and strain cooperation at a time when Washington has linked drug trafficking to regional instability.

Colombian officials insist they are committed to working with the U.S. regardless of the outcome. Admiral Francisco Cubides, head of the Navy, said last week that “renewing certification is an objective we pursue with actions, not words”. But uncertainty remains high as both governments brace for a decision that could redefine one of Washington’s longest-running security partnerships in Latin America .

The administration of President José Raúl Mulino has finalised an agreement with fruit giant Chiquita to restart banana production in Bocas del Toro, ending months of uncertainty for the local community. The Memorandum of Understanding, signed on August 6 in Brasilia, sets a framework for the reorganisation of the sector and paves the way for nearly 3,000 jobs in the first phase and 2,000 more in the second. Chiquita will invest 30 million balboas to reactivate 5,000 hectares of land, with operations expected by February 2026. A technical committee of government and company representatives will oversee compliance. President Mulino said the deal will restore stability, adding, “I will always work for investment, production, and job creation.”

IMF projects 4.5% growth in 2025

The International Monetary Fund has forecast that Panama’s economy will grow by 4.5% in 2025, supported by stable inflation, logistics, services, and the recovery of the Panama Canal. The IMF praised the government’s fiscal discipline and reforms to the Social and Fiscal Responsibility Law, which set deficit ceilings of 4% of GDP in 2025 and 2% in 2029. The organisation said these measures could reduce public debt to 40% of GDP by 2040, boosting market confidence. The report also highlighted that nearly 5% of GDP continues to be allocated to public investment in sectors including education, health, and infrastructure, balancing fiscal consolidation with social priorities.

IDEA warns of democratic stagnation

Latin America, including Panama, is facing stagnation in the quality of democracy, according to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA). Director Marcela Ríos Tobar noted regression across the region in representation, rights, rule of law, and participation. The IDEA Global State of Democracy Index, covering 173 countries, places Panama in a group showing strong electoral processes but weaker performance in rights and inclusion. The report, due September 11, warns that Panama’s democracy has remained stable but stagnant over the past five years, with setbacks in socioeconomic equality and citizen participation.

Migrants retrace their steps amid U.S. border closure

Donald Trump's new restrictions have caused thousands of migrants, mostly Venezuelans, to turn back from the U.S. border, leaving them stranded in the Panamanian port village of Miramar. More than 14,000 people have reversed their journey south, according to a recent report. Many had crossed the Darién Gap only to face renewed hardship. Gabriela, a 26-year-old Venezuelan mother, said, “I was hoping for a better future, but it was all for nothing.” Migrants wait in abandoned houses and tents, uncertain how to finance the next leg of their journey.

Authorities seize drugs bound for New Zealand

Panamanian security forces seized 39 packages of suspected narcotics concealed in a container originating from Morocco and destined for New Zealand. The operation was carried out by the drug prosecutor’s office and the national police. Police director Jaime Fernandez reported that authorities had confiscated seven tons of narcotics by the end of August 2025, sparking concern among security officials. In response, authorities convened to discuss stronger measures against drug trafficking, particularly in shipments routed through Panama’s ports and bound for Europe.

On August 7, the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Justice announced an increase in the reward offer under the Narcotics Rewards Program (NRP) for “information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Nicolás Maduro for violating U.S. narcotics laws.”

U.S. officials accuse Maduro of being “one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world ” and link him to major drug smuggling operations. Washington claims he has been a leader of the Cartel de los Soles, which is alleged to have trafficked drugs into the United States for over a decade.

Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration seized 30 tons of cocaine tied to Maduro and his associates, with nearly seven tons allegedly connected directly to him.

What they said

Attorney General Pam Bondi said Maduro was “one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world ” and accused him of coordinating with criminal groups. “The DEA has seized 30 tons of cocaine linked to Maduro and his associates, with nearly seven tons linked to Maduro himself,” she stated in a video posted on X. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil called the new reward “pathetic” and “political propaganda,” adding, “We’re not surprised, coming from whom it comes from,” and accusing Bondi of seeking “a desperate distraction” from the Jeffrey Epstein case backlash. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said, “On Mexico’s part, there is no investigation that has to do with that. As we always say, if they have some evidence, show it. We do not have any proof.”

The group, which has roots in paramilitary activities, calls itself the Gaitanista Army of Colombia and has more than 7,500 members. It is considered one of the main security challenges for Petro’s left-wing government .

"Today, we are talking about illicit economies. Cocaine, perhaps the largest. And so this must be discussed at the negotiation tables. If it is possible to peace fully dismantle drug trafficking in Colombia so that there can be peace," Petro added.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) World Drug Report 2025 , global cocaine production reached a record 3,708 tons in 2023. Colombia accounted for more than 67% of the world’s coca leaf crops and recorded a 53% increase in cocaine production that year.

Security forces and officials from the Houthi-controlled Interior Ministry supervised the incineration , which took place in an open area on July 1.

The burning of the drugs was timed to coincide with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The narcotics were seized during recent anti-smuggling operations across several provinces, according to officials.

Video footage showed large stacks of drugs set on fire as armed guards stood watch and thick smoke rose into the sky.

The event was meant to highlight ongoing efforts to fight drug trafficking in a country struggling with conflict , political instability, and weak law enforcement.

A senior official at the site said, “This operation is a message to drug smugglers that Yemen is not a safe place for their crimes.”

South Florida lawmakers condemned the shooting of Colombian senator Miguel Uribe Turbay at a campaign rally in Bogota. The 39-year-old politician, who is in critical condition after surgery, was attacked on Saturday, raising concerns about political violence in Colombia. Senator Uribe, associated with a prominent political family, is a candidate for the upcoming presidential election in May 2026. Statements from U.S. representatives highlighted the incident as a threat to democracy, calling for accountability and an end to inflammatory government rhetoric.

Miracle needed for shot Candidate's survival

Miguel Uribe Turbay's health remains critical following a shooting incident at a campaign rally, with doctors stating he requires a 'miracle' for recovery. The 39-year-old senator, who was shot twice, underwent surgery but has shown little response to treatment. A 15-year-old suspect has been arrested, with police revealing the weapon used was legally purchased. Uribe is the grandson of a former president and has a history of advocacy against violence, making this attack particularly significant against the backdrop of Colombia's political landscape.

South Florida man arrested for drug trafficking

Chip Ervin, 46, was arrested at Miami International Airport after arriving from Colombia with nearly 3,000 hydrocodone pills in his baggage. The man was apprehended during a secondary inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Ervin, who claimed to be in Colombia for dental work, now faces serious drug trafficking charges following the discovery of the controlled substances in his luggage.

Discovering 'real Colombia' in Mompox

The travel experience in Santa Cruz de Mompox offers a glimpse into what some locals call the 'real Colombia', contrasting with the more tourist-heavy areas like Cartagena. Mompox, rich in colonial history without the presence of major commercial chains, provides a serene setting where visitors can enjoy riverfront views and local gastronomy. This less-explored destination appeals to those seeking an authentic cultural experience away from commercialisation, capturing the essence of Colombia's heritage.

Bringing together around 30 participants from national institutions and international experts, the initiative seeks to tailor the regional TIP+ (Trafficking in Persons) framework to Cape Verdean realities.

The program included technical presentations, interactive discussions, and the administration of a detailed questionnaire to assess the country’s legal and protective mechanisms against trafficking.

Cape Verde is the latest ECOWAS member state to take steps toward the national implementation of the TIP+ Strategy, which is designed to provide a comprehensive and harmonised regional response to human trafficking across West Africa.

Security forces recovered 10 illegal firearms, 87 rounds of ammunition, five improvised explosive devices, six hand grenades, narcotics , stolen mobile phones and passports, counterfeit food items, stolen sugar and spices, unauthorized pharmaceuticals, and cash.

All suspects have been handed over to local police for further investigation and legal proceedings.

The military said the operations were part of ongoing efforts to maintain law and order nationwide. Army patrols are also being conducted in industrial areas to help ease labor unrest, and additional security measures were in place during this week’s Buddha Purnima festival.

Authorities urged the public to report any suspicious activity to the nearest army camp.

On Saturday, May 3, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that she had turned down an offer from U.S. President Donald Trump to send American troops to Mexico to fight drug trafficking because "sovereignty is not for sale." Sheinbaum's remarks were in response to enquiries over a May 2 Wall Street Journal article claiming that Trump was putting pressure on Mexico to permit further U.S. military engagement against drug cartels in order to fight trafficking across the shared border.

Migrant children face ongoing risks crossing Mexico

A joint report by Save the Children and Plan International, released Monday, May 5, highlights high levels of violence, exclusion, and uncertainty experienced by migrant children travelling through Mexico toward the United States. Based on 155 interviews conducted between November 2024 and February 2025, the study found that children fleeing violence in their home countries often encounter continued rights violations rather than receiving protection. Interviewees, aged 7 to 16, originated primarily from Mexico, Honduras, and Venezuela, with others from Colombia, Guatemala, Afghanistan, and Haiti.

Thousands of Venezuelan migrants stranded in southern Mexico

At least 3,000 Venezuelan nationals are currently stranded in Tapachula, a city near Mexico’s southern border with Guatemala. Under intense heat, large crowds have gathered at immigration offices seeking flights out of the area. Unlike earlier migration patterns aimed at reaching the United States, many are now attempting to return to Venezuela or leave Tapachula by any possible means. A lack of passports, documentation, and financial resources continues to hinder their departure. Tapachula, once a primary entry point for migrants from Central America, has seen a sharp increase in displaced individuals overwhelming local shelters and public spaces.

Unilever to invest $1.5 billion in Mexico to boost production

Unilever announced a $30 billion pesos ($1.5 billion USD) investment in Mexico from 2025 to 2028 to expand its production capacity. The plan, disclosed during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference, includes the creation of 1,200 jobs. The investment allocates 8 billion pesos ($408.3 million USD) to build a new factory in Nuevo León, northeastern Mexico, focused on beauty and personal care products.

Indigenous rights advocate missing after activism-linked threats

Sandra Estéfana Domínguez Martínez, a Mixe Indigenous lawyer and women's rights advocate from Oaxaca, is missing along with her husband . The couple was last seen on October 4 in eastern Oaxaca's Mixe region. Domínguez was known for denouncing gender-based violence and exposing misogynistic behaviour among local politicians. Her activism drew death threats, according to colleagues, who now believe these threats may be linked to her disappearance. Authorities have not confirmed any leads at this time.

Liberia marks a significant advancement in its fisheries sector with the establishment of its first fibreglass fishing vessel production site on Bushrod Island, funded by the World Bank, reports the Daily Observer . Implemented by the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) in collaboration with an international firm, this project aims to modernise fishing practices, enhance sustainability, and preserve forests. NaFAA plans to manage the launch of 23 solar-powered vessels via selected local entrepreneurs, with hopes of expanding to other coastal regions as demand grows.

Liberia targets drug abuse with security training

In response to growing concerns over drug trafficking, the Government of Liberia has trained 470 joint security officers to enhance drug law enforcement and public health safety. Led by the Technical Working Group, the training equips officers with skills in border management and incident reporting, resulting in significant drug seizures and the destruction of illegal cannabis farms. The initiative promotes a comprehensive approach to drug intervention, balancing enforcement with preventive measures against substance misuse, especially among youth, The New Dawn reports.

Unchecked contraceptive use poses risks for Liberian women

Despite the accessibility of over-the-counter contraceptives in Liberia, many women, including Yamah Kollie, face risks from inadequate medical guidance and misinformation, according to SciDev Net . As health professionals call for better regulatory measures, they stress the need for proper consultation to prevent misuse, particularly of dangerous medications like Microgynon and misoprostol. Advocates urge the adoption of a Public Health Law to improve contraceptive access and education, as irresponsible use threatens women's health and well-being.

AI's impact on academia: A double-edged sword

Liberia's tertiary institutions are grappling with the transformative effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on academic integrity. Faculty members are challenged by the difficulty of detecting AI-generated content, which raises ethical concerns regarding degrees and skills in the workforce. To address this, institutions are encouraged to implement training for educators, revise assessment methods, and adopt ethical guidelines for responsible AI use in academia, as reported by the Daily Observer . The focus is not only on counteracting misuse but also on fostering an environment where AI enhances educational outcomes.

Following the announcement of a 32% tariff on Indonesian exports by the US, up to 50,000 Indonesian workers may face layoffs, prompting President Prabowo to instruct cabinet members to explore employment measures urgently. According to VN Express , this assessment was shared by Vice Chair of Indonesia’s National Economic Council, Mari Elka Pangestu, highlighting ongoing negotiations and various initiatives to mitigate impacts on the labour-intensive textile and shrimp processing industries.

Concerns over military role in governance

Amid concerns about Indonesia regressing to authoritarianism reminiscent of Suharto's regime, critics are alarmed at President Prabowo's moves to expand the military's role in governance. Human rights advocates emphasise a collective trauma over past abuses as public protests arise against new legislation, as reported by the Economic Times . Despite this, Prabowo maintains that limitations are in place, while fears of media suppression and intimidation grow due to recent incidents involving local journalists.

Withdrawal from $7.7 billion EV battery project

A South Korean consortium led by LG has decided to withdraw its $7.7 billion electric vehicle battery supply chain project in Indonesia, citing changes in the industrial landscape and reduced global EV demand. Despite this exit, LG Energy Solution plans to maintain its existing operations in Indonesia, including a joint venture with Hyundai for battery production, reports Social News XYZ .

Rising cocaine use reported in Indonesia

Tempo reports that the Indonesian National Police reported a rising trend in cocaine use, evidenced by a recent seizure of 25 kilogrammes of cocaine in Aceh and North Sumatra. The increase reflects the activity of an international drug distribution network. Despite cocaine's limited distribution due to high costs, arrests in this case indicate growing concerns regarding drug abuse in the country.

First ministerial ‘2+2’ dialogue between Indonesia and China

Indonesia and China are set to hold their first-ever 2+2 ministerial dialogue on April 21 in Beijing, marking a significant step in bilateral relations. This dialogue, which underscores strategic cooperation, follows previous meetings between President Xi Jinping and President Prabowo. The meeting aims to discuss security, political cooperation, and regional collaboration, further solidifying the nations' 75-year diplomatic relationship, reports Antara .

Ghana's first female Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, was admitted to the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) in the capital city, Accra, on Friday, March 28, after falling ill. According to a statement from the Office of the President, she received treatment on Saturday and, based on expert medical advice, will seek further care abroad. . "The Vice President, Her Excellency Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, received treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre on Saturday due to a sudden illness that occurred after work on Friday, March 28, 2025,” the statement said. It remains unclear when she will travel for additional treatment.

Cocaine haul

The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has intercepted a staggering 3,319.66 kilograms (3.3 tonnes) of suspected cocaine, valued at approximately $350 million. The massive haul was concealed in sacks and bags hidden under heaps of sand in a tipper truck in an attempt to evade detection. The truck was intercepted at Pedu Junction in Cape Coast in the Central Region while en route to Accra. Upon offloading the sand, authorities retrieved 143 distinctly marked sacks weighing 2,974kg. Preliminary field testing by the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) confirmed the substance as cocaine. Further intelligence-led investigations led NIB operatives to the residence of a suspect, where an additional 13 sacks and one bag of suspected cocaine, weighing 345.07kg, were discovered on March 8, 2025. In a report by Graphic Online , two suspects, 39-year-old Isaac Quaicoo, the driver of the tipper truck, and his mate, 25-year-old tertiary student Kenneth Cobbinah, are currently in custody, assisting with investigations.

Parliament repeals controversial E-levy

Ghana’s Parliament has officially abolished the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy), which taxed electronic financial transactions. The levy, initially set at 1.75% and later reduced to 1%, was widely criticised for discouraging digital transactions. Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Nyarko Ampem stated that the repeal will return GH¢2 billion to citizens, easing financial pressures.

Sale of diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia

The government has revoked controversial deals initiated by the previous administration to sell Ghana’s diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasised that no diplomatic properties would be sold under President Mahama’s administration. "Yesterday I informed Parliament that with the full backing of President Mahama, we have cancelled two transactions initiated by the previous Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to sell Ghanaian diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia. Determined efforts are underway to retrieve an illegal part payment in one of the transactions. The masterminds, who are currently on the run, will surely be found and sanctioned," Ablakwa shared on his Facebook page . The government is also working to recover illegal payments made in connection with the transactions.

Over 1,300 ECG containers missing at Tema Port

A report has revealed that 1,347 containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have mysteriously disappeared from Tema Port. Ghanaweb reported that, initially, ECG indicated that there were 2,491 uncleared containers, but an audit found only 1,134 at the port. The missing containers, containing vital electrical equipment, have raised concerns over procurement violations and financial mismanagement. Minister of Energy John Abdulai Jinapor has pledged a thorough investigation, involving the Attorney General and the Ghana Police Service, to locate the containers and hold those responsible accountable.