The Sarambí operation conducted simultaneous searches at seven properties in Pedro Juan Caballero to investigate suspected money laundering and a network that allegedly moved stolen vehicles from Brazil to Paraguay, where they could be modified to transport drugs or smuggled goods. The investigation is being led by prosecutor Pamela Pérez, with the participation of agents from the Department of International Police Cooperation Agreements.
Marciano Denis Torales, identified as the alleged head of the network and the subject of an arrest warrant, was not found. His son, Anderson, was also not found, according to one report. One report said Denis’s son’s partner remained in custody; another said police held the main suspect’s partner. The accounts do not clarify whether they refer to the same person.
Reports also differ on other detentions. Commissioner Rolando Benítez said one person was captured and four others apprehended. Another report said a Brazilian citizen was apprehended. The available sources do not clarify whether these accounts describe the same people or separate procedures.
Items seized include an armored pickup truck reported stolen in Brazil; its origin and possible connection to the investigation are being examined. Agents also seized a Croatian-made firearm, ammunition of various calibers, cellphones, security-camera recording equipment and a quantity of a substance suspected to be marijuana.
The investigative hypothesis is that vehicles were taken from Brazil to Paraguay, driven with altered or cloned documents and, in some cases, fitted with false compartments to conceal narcotics or smuggled goods. The seizures form part of the investigation; on their own, they do not prove the suspects’ involvement or that the pickup truck was used to transport drugs.
The properties and seized goods will also be examined as part of the investigation, including to assess possible confiscation as the case progresses. Paraguayan authorities received support from Brazilian police, and the investigation reportedly began with information obtained through international cooperation mechanisms.