The Public Ministry and the National Drug Control Directorate (DNCD) made public the images of two individuals linked to the criminal structure dismantled through the Operation Panthera 7urging them to surrender to the authorities. This operation is part of joint efforts to combat drug trafficking and criminal networks operating in the country.
Through “Wanted” posters, authorities identified José Alexander Santana Andujar (Alex) and Luis Rafael García Alfonseca (El Duartero), who appear in the file as active members of the criminal network. According to court documents, this organization was dedicated to international cocaine trafficking and operated with a high level of sophistication.
The seizure of 9.8 tons of cocaine, seized in early December in the Caucedo Multimodal Portconstitutes one of the biggest blows to drug trafficking in the country’s recent history.
Profile of the fugitives
Both individuals worked as truck drivers at the port terminalwhich allowed them to collaborate directly in the transportation and management of containers used for drug smuggling. Its strategic position within the port was key to circumventing security controls and facilitating the movement of illicit merchandise.
Modus operandi of the network
According to investigations, the criminal organization was led by José Nicolás Castillo Hart and Winston Armando Tejera Rodríguezwho recruited employees in the country’s main ports to evade security protocols. These workers collaborated by manipulating inspection procedures and avoiding the search of containers loaded with cocaine.
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The seized shipment of 9.8 tons of cocaine was introduced into the country by sea through Bayahibe, The Romanand Flintsusing routes known for the vulnerability of their border controls. Subsequently, the drugs were stored in a collection center located in the sector The Watcherowned by one of the ringleaders, Winston Armando Tejera Rodríguez.
Organization infrastructure
To operate more effectively and minimize the risk of detection, the criminal network created front transportation companies. These companies simulated legitimate commercial activities while transporting cocaine from entry points to collection and distribution centers. In addition, they had a network of national and international contacts that facilitated the movement of illicit substances to foreign markets.
Panthera 7 operation and repercussions
The Operation Panthera 7 It not only resulted in the seizure of the drugs, but also in the arrest of several people involved. The authorities have described this case as a strategic blow to drug trafficking in the country. However, with some of those involved still at large, investigations continue and authorities are calling on the population to collaborate with information that could lead to the capture of those responsible.
Furthermore, it has been reported that the network maintained links with international cartelswhich increases the magnitude of the operation and underlines the need for cooperation between countries in the fight against drug trafficking.
