Lors d'une opération de contrôle routier, un ours en peluche a été repéré avec un remplissage spécial: de la marijuana.

During a routine traffic control operation on Thursday night, Argentine national police forces uncovered an unusual method of drug trafficking involving a stuffed bear filled with marijuana. The discovery took place on kilometer 94 of National Route 9, where officers from the National Gendarmerie’s Section Nucleus of Squadron 63 “Zárate Brazo Largo,” supported by the “San Nicolás” Road Squadron, were inspecting a parcel delivery vehicle headed to the Buenos Aires locality of Pablo Nogués. A narcotics detection dog marked one of the packages during the inspection, prompting further examination. Inside the package, officials found several toys, including a plush bear whose internal structure appeared suspicious. Upon opening the toy, they discovered a cylindrical package wrapped in nylon emitting a distinct odor of cannabis. Field tests confirmed the presence of 63 grams of marijuana. The seized drugs were handed over to the Federal Court of Campana, and legal proceedings have been initiated under Argentina's Drug Law 23.737. Investigations continue to identify those responsible for the shipment. The incident occurred alongside two separate operations conducted in Salta province, where Gendarmeria personnel detected three women and a minor transporting large quantities of cocaine and marijuana. In one case, officers stopped a bus and found that three female passengers had hidden 7,185 kilograms of cocaine and 135 grams of cannabis sativa among towels, bed sheets, and winter clothing. During a thorough search, agents discovered bricks containing white powder and plant material concealed within the items. The substances were confiscated, and the women were detained based on instructions from the Decentralized Fiscal Office of Orán. In another operation, members of the Reinforced Section “Aguas Blancas” observed a minor walking along a secondary road carrying a plastic bag. When the youth attempted to flee upon noticing the gendarmes, he was apprehended. A search revealed that the boy was transporting 10,385 kilograms of marijuana in the bag. Authorities from the Decentralized Fiscal Office of Orán secured the drugs and a mobile phone, and the minor was placed under judicial supervision before being returned to his parents. These operations highlight the evolving tactics used by traffickers to evade detection, often employing everyday objects to conceal illicit substances. The use of a stuffed animal as a smuggling device underscores the creativity and risk-taking behavior associated with drug trafficking networks. Officials emphasize the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to disrupt such activities effectively. The Gendarmeria has been actively monitoring routes connecting Argentina with neighboring countries, particularly Bolivia, where drug trafficking is prevalent. These efforts aim to intercept shipments before they reach their destinations and to dismantle the supply chains supporting illegal drug trade. The recent seizures represent a significant step in these ongoing operations, demonstrating the effectiveness of coordinated policing strategies. Authorities remain focused on tracing the origins of the drugs and identifying all individuals involved in the trafficking network. Legal actions against those implicated will proceed through the appropriate judicial channels. Meanwhile, the Gendarmeria continues its patrols and inspections to prevent similar incidents and ensure public safety.