International News: Ecuador police seize more than 1,000 pounds of cocaine bearing Haaland’s image

By Zoila Palma: Police in Ecuador have seized 469 kilograms (1,034 pounds) of cocaine from a truck near the Colombian border, with the packages carrying images of Norwegian soccer star Erling Haaland. A woman was reportedly arrested following the discovery, according to authorities.

Anti-narcotics agents launched an operation after receiving an anonymous tip early Tuesday about a suspicious truck traveling along the Pan-American Highway, CBS reports.

During a search, officers discovered 370 packages of cocaine concealed inside a false compartment in the vehicle.

Police released video footage showing the packages being removed from the hidden compartment, with Haaland’s face prominently displayed on the green rectangular packages. The Manchester City striker has become a major global sports figure, particularly following his recent World Cup performances.

Authorities estimated the value of the shipment at nearly $842,000 on Ecuador’s domestic market, while its potential value was estimated at more than $11 million in the United States and over $19.6 million in Europe.

Police said criminal organizations operating in Ecuador work with Colombian and Mexican cartels to move narcotics through established trafficking routes.

Officials said it is common for drug traffickers to use images, names or symbols associated with celebrities and sports figures on their shipments.

Such markings can reportedly be used to identify the criminal organization behind a shipment or its intended client.

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