Uruguay Navy finds cocaine hidden in container at Port of Montevideo

The Uruguay Navy has found cocaine hydrochloride hidden in a container at the Port of Montevideo. 

The operation, which was conducted together with the country’s coast guard and customs agencies, unveiled a total of 368 packages of the illicit content, amounting to 417 kilograms of cocaine.

The drugs, found after the container was scanned, would reportedly have a street value of $24 million on the European market.

The 40-foot container, loaded with wool bales, was destined for the Port of Antwerp, Belgium, the navy said.

Relevant authorities arrested four individuals who are believed to be involved in the smuggling attempt.

The operation is a joint action of domestic, European and US authorities aimed at prevention of illicit drug trafficking, according to local media.