Uruguay, an emerging echelon in the distribution network of chc to europe and africa

Abstract

CHC trafficking in the Republic of Uruguay has been evolving and becoming increasingly relevant over the years. The growing production of CHC in the South American region has forced Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) to seek new alternatives and strategies due to increased security in port controls of traditional routes, especially in Colombia, Peru, and Brazil. This has led to a shift in drug trafficking routes towards non-traditional ports located in Southern Cone transit countries. One of the most used modalities is the "Illegal Warehouse", which in recent years has gained special relevance and has become the main actor for drug trafficking due to its stationary condition and its large storage capacity to house and temporarily hide a large number of drugs. Additionally, the Balkan Cartel has increased its presence not only in the traditional countries of CHC
distribution and shipment in South America but also in secondary countries such as Uruguay, where they have sent emissaries to negotiate the logistics for the shipment of CHC to West Africa and then to Europe as a final destination.