The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) intercepted, this Monday (9), a helicopter that entered Brazilian airspace without authorization, coming from Venezuela, carrying approximately 240 kg of drugs. The action took place near Manaus (AM) and was coordinated by the Aerospace Operations Command (Comae), with the participation of two A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and an H-60 Black Hawk helicopter, in an integrated operation with the Federal Police (PF).
As soon as the aircraft entered the airspace without submitting a flight plan, it was detected and monitored by the Aerospace Operations Command. In accordance with airspace policing protocols, the helicopter was classified as suspicious.
The pilot of one of the A-29s observed the helicopter make a forced landing in a green area near Manaus, around 4:40 p.m. (Brasília time). Federal Police agents, aboard the FAB H-60 Black Hawk, boarded the aircraft and seized a load of skank, a synthetic drug stronger than marijuana. The pilot fled before the authorities arrived.
The interception was part of Operation Ostium, which is part of the Integrated Border Protection Program, with the aim of combating illicit activities through coordinated actions between the FAB and public security agencies.
