Joint Crackdown: Massive South American Operation Seizes Tons of Explosives, Dismantling Criminal Networks
A sweeping international operation has dealt a major blow to organized crime and terrorism networks, securing thousands of explosives and disrupting the illicit flow of explosive materials across South America.
Operation Claymore, a two-month collaborative effort involving nine countries and spearheaded by INTERPOL, se3izure of explosives, including 28,000 kilograms of various explosives
Hastening Response to a Global Threat
Valdecy Urquiza,
"The black market trade in explosive materials is a major security risk. We’re seeing a disturbing rise in terror groups, organized crime and gangs using explosives – from violent attacks to illegal mining operations. This successful operation across South America shows we are making progress, but the threat is real and global."
Hidden in Plain Sight:
Detecting Explosive Materials
The operation revealed an alarming trend: a surge in the illicit trade of chemicals and components used to manufacture explosives.
In Ecuador, authorities uncovered a cache of eight C4 explosive demolition blocks, 30,000 rounds of ammunition, and numerous grenades alongside heroin at a location linked to organized crime.
A Deadly Arsenal Seazed
Equipment used to create improvised explosive devices (IEDs) was seized in Colombia. Authorities neutralized
A Brazilian Checkpoint Yields# : Explosives Hidden in Truck Filters
Authorities deployed innovative investigative techniques. In one case in Brazil, charges concealed inside truck air filters and disguised in seemingly innocuous containers.
Struggling Against Illegal Mines
Operation Claymore aimed not only at dismantling criminal networks
The collaborative efforts also tackled illegal mining practices which rely on explosives and pose significant environmental and safety risks.
A Global Cooperative Network
The success of Operation Claymore revealed the vital importance of collaboration in.
Lasting impact With Global Reach
INTERPOL’s vital role in facilitating international cooperation, sharing intelligence, and providing secure communication channels proved instrumental during the operation.
Participating countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay.
・ What are the potential implications of the black market trade in explosives for the stability and security of South American countries?
## Joint Crackdown: Operation Claymore Hammers South American Explosives Trade
**Intro:** Joining us today is Valdecy Urquiza, a security expert specializing in transnational criminal networks, to discuss the groundbreaking results of Operation Claymore. Welcome to the show, Valdecy.
**Urquiza:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** So, Valdecy, early this week, we saw news of Operation Claymore, a massive international effort that culminated in the seizure of a staggering 28 tonnes of explosives across South America. [[1](https://www.lanacion.com.py/mundo/2024/12/05/operativo-claymore-incautan-28-toneladas-de-materiales-explosivos-en-sudamerica/)]Can you tell us a little bit more about the scope of this operation?
**Urquiza:** Absolutely. Operation Claymore was a two-month long collaborative effort involving nine South American countries, working in tandem with INTERPOL. This operation targeted the increasingly worrying trend of illegal explosives trade crossing borders in the region. The sheer volume of explosives confiscated – over 28,000 kilograms – speaks volumes about the scale of this illicit market and the potential threat it poses.
**Host:** Indeed, those numbers are worrying. And you mentioned the threat?
**Urquiza:** Without a doubt. The black market trade in explosive materials is a ticking time bomb. We are seeing a disturbing surge in terrorist groups, organized crime syndicates and even gangs gaining access to these materials. This isn’t just about potential bombings – it fuels violence, destabilizes communities, and undermines security across the region.
**Host:** What impact do you think this operation will have on these criminal networks?
**Urquiza:** It’s a significant blow, no doubt. Dismantling these networks and seizing such a large quantity of explosives disrupts their operations, at least temporarily. It sends a powerful message: international cooperation can be effective in tackling transborder crime.
**Host:** It certainly seems like a major victory. What are the next steps for the participating countries?
**Urquiza:**
Continued vigilance and collaboration are essential. Law enforcement agencies need to stay ahead of the curve, constantly adapting to new tactics and smuggling routes. Investing in intelligence sharing and strengthening regional partnerships will be crucial to tackling this issue in the long term.
**Host:** Well said. Valdecy Urquiza, thank you for your insights on this important issue. This has been a thought-provoking discussion.
**Urquiza:** My pleasure.
