Authorities in Suriname have dismantled a sophisticated narcotics trafficking operation, resulting in nine arrests following the discovery of an illegal airstrip and a semi-submersible vessel under construction near Witagron. The investigation has uncovered significant evidence, including weapons, ammunition, and specialized construction materials.
The breakthrough occurred when law enforcement located the covert facilities, prompting several suspects to flee into the surrounding wilderness. On February 15th, officials seized eight 200-liter barrels of aviation gasoline (avgas) and multiple weapons at the site. That same day, a Venezuelan national was apprehended after hiding in the forest for several days; investigators believe he was directly involved in the semi-submarine’s construction.
Operations expanded to Paramaribo on Monday with the arrest of two Surinamese brothers. One brother held the concession rights to the property where the illegal infrastructure was built. During his arrest, authorities confiscated an illegal handgun. A subsequent search of his residence revealed even more evidence: fourteen additional avgas barrels, an illegal AR-15 rifle, substantial ammunition, rolls of fiberglass (believed destined for the semi-submarine’s construction), and positive alerts from the Police Corps K-9 unit.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office confirms the investigation remains active, with manhunts underway for additional suspects. Further arrests have not been ruled out as authorities continue to unravel the international drug trafficking network.