#drugtrafficking

[renatoferreiradasilva]

The Convergence of Economic Interests and Drug Trafficking: Lessons from Prohibition and the U.S. War on Drugs

The prohibition of drugs in the United States, a policy widely contested for its social and economic consequences, finds historical parallels in the Prohibition era (1920–1933). During Prohibition, the production, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned in the U.S. Like today’s drug prohibition, Prohibition was driven by moral and public health arguments but resulted in a parallel economy of illegal activities and an increase in organized crime. This economic history essay aims to draw parallels between Prohibition and current drug policy, highlighting how prohibition simultaneously benefits large corporations, organized crime, and ultimately shapes global geopolitics and economic structures.

1. Prohibition: A Moratorium and the Growth of the Black Market

Prohibition in the United States was enforced by the passage of the 18th Amendment and the creation of the Volstead Act. Its declared purpose was to improve public health, reduce crime, and boost societal morality by eliminating alcohol consumption. However, the economic effect of Prohibition was the opposite of what its proponents envisioned. Far from eradicating alcohol, the ban fostered the creation of a lucrative black market, managed by mafia groups that saw opportunities to enrich themselves through the illegal sale of alcohol.

Entrepreneurs of the illegal market, such as Al Capone, quickly amassed fortunes by exploiting the continuous demand for alcohol, demonstrating that the criminalization of widely demanded products tends to create highly profitable underground markets. The rise of organized crime, the bribery of politicians and law enforcement, and the violence associated with territorial control among gangs were some of the most visible consequences. The black market became an essential part of the parallel economy, moving significant amounts of money and directly influencing politics.

Similarly, the international drug trade that flourished under drug prohibition has replicated many patterns established during Prohibition. Today, drug cartels operate in ways comparable to the organized crime bosses of the 1920s, profiting immensely from prohibition while perpetuating networks of corruption, violence, and political instability.

2. The Dual Benefit: Corporations and Organized Crime

During Prohibition, large corporations were not directly involved in the illegal alcohol trade, but other sectors of the economy benefited from the ban. A notable example was the pharmaceutical industry, which retained exclusive access to alcohol for medicinal purposes. Medicinal alcohol, legalized under medical supervision, was widely sold in pharmacies and distributed by doctors who prescribed "alcohol treatments" for a range of ailments.

Thus, the pharmaceutical industry found a way to profit from Prohibition by controlling access to a still-demanded substance that was now heavily regulated. The monopoly these companies held on medicinal alcohol offered them a chance to profit through exclusivity at a time when recreational alcohol consumption was outlawed.

This model is clearly reflected in today’s drug policy. The prohibition of recreational drugs, such as cannabis or even cocaine derivatives, provides large pharmaceutical corporations with a monopoly over controlled substances that might otherwise be produced more cheaply and widely. Through patents and stringent regulatory processes, these companies dominate the market for legal treatments for pain, anxiety, and other conditions, often utilizing opioid derivatives and anxiolytics that are sometimes more dangerous and addictive than the recreational drugs targeted by legislation.

This convergence of interests—between corporations that benefit from prohibition and criminal organizations that profit from the black market—creates a complex economic structure resistant to reform, as both sides have economic incentives to maintain the status quo.

3. Drug Trafficking and the Control of the Drug Market

In the absence of government regulation and competition in a legal market, international drug trafficking emerged as the primary supplier of recreational drugs to the United States and other global markets. Prohibition creates artificial barriers that drive up the prices of these substances, generating disproportionately high profit margins for those who control supply.

In the case of cocaine trafficking, for instance, growing coca in Latin American countries such as Colombia and Peru is extremely inexpensive. However, prohibition and the risks associated with international trafficking inflate the price of cocaine in consumer markets like the U.S. and Europe. Just like the crime bosses during Prohibition, drug cartel leaders have become powerful figures, controlling territories and wielding influence over local politicians and law enforcement.

The economic model of drug trafficking is, therefore, similar to that of organized crime during Prohibition, with a lucrative parallel economy based on illegality. Violence and territorial control are essential to securing market access and ensuring the continuity of illegal operations. Moreover, just like in the 1920s, political corruption and the complicity of local authorities are key elements that facilitate the persistence of these activities.

4. Trump, Drug Prohibition, and Economic Interests

Amidst this scenario, Donald Trump’s position against the legalization of drugs is a clear example of how the prohibition economy benefits both large corporations and criminal organizations. Although Trump has adopted tough rhetoric on combating drug trafficking and illegal drugs, his resistance to legalization or decriminalization policies reflects deeper economic interests.

On the one hand, Trump’s stance protects the profits of large pharmaceutical corporations, which rely on the exclusivity of controlled substances. The legalization of drugs like cannabis could threaten these profits by opening the market to new competitors who might provide natural, more affordable alternatives. On the other hand, by keeping the black market intact, his "law and order" policy ensures that drug trafficking profits remain high, much like the profits of organized crime during Prohibition.

The economic logic behind these policies suggests a "double game" in which the interests of different groups are protected at the expense of a more effective and socially beneficial solution. Drug law reform, focusing on legalization and regulation, has the potential to drastically reduce drug-related violence, dismantle corruption networks, and open the market to new businesses that could provide safer and more affordable alternatives for consumers.

Conclusion

Prohibition and the current drug ban share many similarities in terms of their economic and social consequences. Both periods witnessed the rise of lucrative black markets, the strengthening of organized crime, and the protection of large corporate interests that control legal markets. Prohibition, in both cases, creates artificial barriers that benefit those who hold monopolies over controlled substances, whether in the pharmaceutical industry or in drug trafficking.

Donald Trump’s stance against drug legalization, far from being a mere reflection of moral or public health concerns, can be seen as a manifestation of broader economic interests. Both large corporations and international drug traffickers benefit from maintaining prohibition, creating a vicious cycle that resists reform and perpetuates a system of violence, corruption, and inequality.

The economic history of Prohibition offers valuable lessons for today’s debate on drug legalization. Just as the repeal of Prohibition reduced the power of organized crime and created a regulated market for alcohol, drug policy reform has the potential to weaken drug cartels and create a legal market that benefits society as a whole.

[phonemantra-blog]

The investigation into the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry is nearing its end, with prosecutors poised to make crucial decisions on potential charges. A recent news report sheds light on a key development: multiple individuals are suspected of supplying Perry with the ketamine that ultimately led to his drowning. Matthew Perry’s Acquisition Closing In: Investigation Focuses on Perry's Ketamine Source According to a report published by the Los Angeles Times, law enforcement sources have confirmed the investigation is nearing its conclusion. The focus of the probe centers on identifying the source(s) that provided Perry with the lethal dose of ketamine found in his system at the time of his death. Multiple Individuals Under Scrutiny The Los Angeles Times report, based on conversations with anonymous law enforcement sources, reveals that detectives have identified multiple people potentially connected to Perry's acquisition of ketamine. This information raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the drug and how it reached Perry. A Multi-Agency Effort: Unveiling the Supply Chain The investigation, launched in May 2024, involves a collaborative effort between various agencies. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) are all contributing their expertise to trace the path of the ketamine that led to Perry's death. Deciphering the Ketamine Trail Detectives are meticulously reconstructing the events leading up to Perry's tragic demise. Their primary objective is to understand how the actor obtained the illegal drug. This investigation delves into the potential sources of ketamine, including legitimate medical channels and illicit avenues. A Duality: Ketamine's Complexities The investigation sheds light on the complex nature of ketamine. While historically used recreationally, ketamine has emerged as a promising treatment for depression and other mental health conditions. This dual nature underscores the importance of responsible access and controlled administration when used for therapeutic purposes. A Tragic Cocktail: Drowning and the Lethal Dose The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's report details the circumstances surrounding Perry's death. The report confirms that drowning was the immediate cause of death. However, a significant contributing factor was the presence of a lethal dose of ketamine in Perry's system. The report further specifies that this high concentration of ketamine-induced cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression. Medical Examiner's Findings: Highlighting Discrepancies The Medical Examiner's report revealed a discrepancy between the timing of Perry's known ketamine therapy sessions and the ketamine levels found in his body at the time of death. The report states that Perry's most recent ketamine treatment occurred a week and a half before his death. However, ketamine typically metabolizes within a few hours, suggesting another source for the high concentration of the drug discovered in his system. Absence of Evidence: Drugs and Paraphernalia The investigation yielded no evidence of additional drugs or drug paraphernalia at Perry's residence. This adds another layer of mystery to the case, as it's unclear how Perry obtained the ketamine and the circumstances surrounding its administration. Medical Professionals Under Scrutiny The Medical Examiner's report clarifies that Perry's known medical professionals in October 2023 consisted of a psychiatrist and an anesthesiologist who also served as his primary care physician. It's unclear at this stage whether either of these professionals played a role in supplying Perry with ketamine. Potential Charges and Legal Ramifications With multiple individuals identified as potential sources of Perry's ketamine, prosecutors are now faced with difficult decisions. The investigation's findings will determine whether criminal charges will be filed and against whom. Potential charges could encompass a range of offenses, including drug trafficking and involuntary manslaughter, depending on the specific facts and evidence gathered. A Legacy of Questions: Unanswered Mysteries Remain While the investigation nears its conclusion, the circumstances surrounding Matthew Perry's tragic death continue to raise questions. Who ultimately supplied Perry with the lethal dose of ketamine? Was the drug obtained legitimately or through illicit means? These unanswered questions linger as the investigation wraps up.

[aslamat]

The Rise and Fall of Whitey Bulger: A Mafioso Who Infiltrated the Boston FBI

James Joseph ‘Whitey’ Bulger Jr: a person whose name symbolises both crime and intelligence, a person who's a societal villain and a criminal mastermind. Life of Bulger, a Boston-based Irish mob boss turned FBI informant, represents any other real life story that became a saga of power, betrayal, and the awful reality of the American underworld.

Childhood Development and Ascend to Presidency

Jailed in the aftermath of the infamous crime, Deadliest Mass murder in America, notorious criminal, Whitey Bulger was born on September 3, 1929 in Dorchester, Massachusetts where he was raised in one of the rough parishes of that city. Even though Bulger and his siblings faced many hardships growing up, life was not all dismal as he was rebellious at a young age. He was already involved in criminal activities by the time he was a teenager and his delinquency activities were changing from minor to serious.

Bulger’s rise to infamy started during the 1950s, when he was officially aligned to the Winter Hill Gang; a dangerous Irish-Mafia gang originating from Somerville, Massachusetts. Bulger has been depicted as a relentless character with a great mind for planning, this saw him rise through the ranks and become an instrumental factor in the gang.

The Reign of Terror

In the period of seventies and eighties, Bulger became a well-established power controlling the city’s criminal sphere. Nonetheless, during his reign, he was involved in the many murders, extortion, drug selling and use of forceful authority to control the country. It was a criminal empire of Bulger that was so widespread, and his ways of escaping the police traps were almost fabled.

In addition, intelligence and scrupulousness made Bulger particularly dangerous and well-planned crime was the proof of it. He succeeded in controlling all criminal operations in Boston and successfully stayed as a behind the scenes operator, never enjoying the ‘trappings’ of being a ‘godfather’ like other mob leaders.

The FBI Connection

Among all the captivating features of Whitey Bulger’s narrative, the role of FBI is one of the most thought-provoking subjects. Bulger started working as an informant for the FBI in 1975 and he helped the FBI in informing about the activities of other crime families that was in competition with him. This was facilitated by an FBI agent named John Connolly whom Bulger knew personally grew in the same South Boston neighborhood.

It could be deduced that the agreement was symbiotic since both parties benefited from the arrangement. The FBI got important information which aided in the breakdown of the mafia from Italy that was operating in New England while Bulger continued to have his immunity against federal charges. Nevertheless, such a partnership was ridden with ethical issues and cases of corruption. Connolly and other agents choose either to ignore or not resist and look the other way as Bulger went on with his criminal activities.

The Downfall

Finally in the mid 1990s luck started turning against Bulger, when the FBI corruption scandal started coming out. Bulger was forced into hiding in 1994 after accusations that he was planning to conduct hit operations had started and was followed by indictments . Despite the best efforts of the authorities to arrest him, he was not successful and he disappeared into American society and went underground for a total of 16 years using different identities.

This was thrown to the dogs in 2011 when he was arrested in Santa Monica California, where he had been living a low profile lifestyle with a long time girlfriend, Catherine Greig. While Bulger’s arrest was the start, it set the final nail in the hoodlum who was once regarded as invincible.

Trial and Conviction

It was only in 2013 when he was brought to trial and charged with ways that ranged from murder to drug trafficking. The courtroom drama played out in a sensationalized manner due to the heavy focus given to it by the media and the general public. Someformer employees and alleged victims of his brutalities also took the stand to describe his brutal rule.

Bulger was ultimately convicted on 31 counts, collectively with racketeering, extortion, and homicide. He was sentenced to two consecutive life terms plus 5 years, bringing his violent legacy to a near end.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Whitey Bulger's existence tale has left an indelible mark on American way of life. His exploits have been the state of affairs of numerous books, documentaries, and movies, most significantly the 2015 movie "Black Mass," wherein Johnny Depp portrayed Bulger with chilling accuracy. His life serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of crime and regulation enforcement, further to the corruptible nature of electricity.

Bulger's twin identification as a feared mob boss and an FBI informant underscores the murky realities of justice and loyalty. His story continues to fascinate and caution, illustrating how the pursuit of strength can result in an unstable path of destruction and betrayal.

Conclusion

Whitey Bulger's existence is a compelling story of crime, power, and remaining downfall. From his early days within the hard neighborhoods of Boston to his reign as a ruthless mob boss and his controversial role as an informant, Bulger's tale is a captivating bankruptcy inside the annals of American crime records. His legacy serves as a testimony to the perilous charm of strength and the inevitable effects of a life lived on the brink of regulation and order.

[thxnews]

Massive $11M Fentanyl Bust at San Ysidro Port

Fentanyl Pills Seized in Cali

Hey there, fellow Californians and friends across the States! Have you heard the latest scoop that's making waves from our very own backyard? It's a story that hits close to home, especially for us living the SoCal lifestyle, where the sun meets the surf, and unfortunately, where drug trafficking attempts are all too common. But this time, the good guys scored big, and I'm here to spill the deets on this colossal discovery.  

CBP officers seized an estimated 561,000 fentanyl pills, with a total weight of 123.6 pounds, and an approximate street value of $11,220,000. Photo by the CBP.   A Sunday Night Like No Other Picture this: It's a calm Sunday evening at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the kind of night that's perfect for winding down and getting ready for the week ahead. But for the CBP officers and their sharp K-9 pals, it was anything but ordinary. At around 8:20 p.m., a 37-year-old dude in a 2008 sedan rolls up, trying to make his way from Mexico into the U.S. Little did he know, his ride was about to get a whole lot more attention than he bargained for.   The K-9 Hero and the Hidden Haul Enter the real MVP of the night: a CBP K-9 unit. These furry heroes don't just look cute; they've got noses that could probably sniff out a needle in a haystack. And sniff out they did, right by the glove compartment, signaling the officers that something was off. A deeper check into the vehicle revealed a jaw-dropping stash: 100 packages of blue pills cleverly concealed within the dashboard and the front passenger seats. Testing confirmed their suspicions—fentanyl, a drug that's as dangerous as they come, with an estimated street value of a whopping $11,220,000. That's right, folks, over 11 million bucks worth of trouble packed into 561,000 pills.  

The Bigger Picture

This wasn't just any bust; it was part of Operation Apollo, a joint force of federal, state, and local agencies dedicated to kicking fentanyl and other synthetic nasties to the curb. It's a reminder of the ongoing battle against a drug that's been a thorn in the side of communities not just in California, but across the nation.   A Shoutout to the Unsung Heroes Mariza Marin, the Port Director for the San Ysidro POE, couldn't be prouder of her team, and neither could we. Their daily grind, their sharp instincts, and their unwavering dedication are what keep these dangerous substances from hitting our streets. It's a testament to the hard work that goes on behind the scenes, often unnoticed but immensely impactful.  

Engage, Reflect, and Stay Informed

Now, I want to hear from you. How do you feel about this massive bust? Got any experiences or thoughts on the matter you'd like to share? Drop a comment below, and let's get the conversation rolling. And remember, staying informed and engaged is key in the fight against drug trafficking. Let's keep our eyes open and support the hardworking men, women, and four-legged heroes that safeguard our communities.   Sources: THX News & US Customs and Border Protection. Read the full article

[christiana007009]

Highway Interception: Traffic Stop Yields Major Drug Seizure!

The recent highway interception and subsequent drug seizure stand as a testament to the unwavering commitment of law enforcement agencies to uphold the rule of law and protect our communities from the scourge of illegal drugs. It serves as a stark reminder that no individual is above the law, and that those who choose to engage in criminal activities will be held accountable for their actions. See More...

[basechop]

Ukraine: Over 1500 Criminal Cases Related to Cryptocurrencies

Since 2014, information about more than 1500 criminal proceedings related to various cryptocurrencies has been recorded in the Unified State Register of Court Decisions in Ukraine, as reported by local media. The majority of these cases (420 proceedings) are connected to fraud, most often associated with the activities of various financial pyramids. In 345 cases, digital assets are mentioned in the context of their use by drug traffickers, and in 54 cases, in connection with investigations into computer network interference. The register also includes criminal proceedings related to money laundering, document forgery, extortion, corruption, and terrorism financing through cryptocurrencies. As of the time of writing, only one-third of the 1500 criminal proceedings have resulted in guilty verdicts. In 2023, cases related to cryptocurrencies constituted a small part of the total number of 475,000 open criminal proceedings. One possible reason for this low number may be the limited qualifications of law enforcement officers to conduct complex investigations in this field. Since 2022, employees of Ukrainian supervisory and law enforcement agencies have been undergoing various specialized training, including the use of tools for analyzing blockchain transactions. However, journalists have found mentions of the practical application of such tools in only two court decisions. In May 2023, the US Internal Revenue Service and the analytical company Chainalysis announced cooperation with Ukraine to track instances of Russians evading sanctions using cryptocurrencies. In November of the same year, Ukrainian officials and law enforcement officers underwent training courses on tracking criminal bitcoin transactions, funded by the OSCE. According to the data of the Ukrainian cyber police, more than 1500 statements related to crimes in the field of cryptocurrencies were submitted to law enforcement agencies from January to November of the previous year. Read the full article

[usnewsper-politics]

New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu: Leading for a Stronger State, Together! #bipartisanship #ChrisSununu #climatechange #currentstateofpolitics #drugtrafficking #economicgrowth #environmentalconcerns #governingNewHampshire #guncontrol #lawenforcementinitiatives #leadershipstyle #NewHampshireeconomy #NewHampshireGovernor #opioidcrisis #politicalbackground #presidentialelection #prioritiesforNewHampshire. #redflaglaw #republican #SecondAmendmentrights #smallbusinesses #startups #treatmentprograms #workingacrosspartylines

[gkingmusik]

Singapore To Execute Woman Over Drug Trafficking For The First Time In 20 Years Written by Kelechi Ofor

[todayonglobe]

Singapore to Execute First Woman in 20 years for Drug Charge

Read more:👇

[ampostnews]

Breaking News: Jorge Iván Gastelum Ávila, better known as "Cholo Iván," has been extradited to the United States to face charges related to drug trafficking and the use of firearms. As the former head of security for "Chapo" Guzman, Gastelum Ávila's extradition is a significant development in the ongoing fight against organized crime in the region. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

[lamdaua]

на банковой кокс то дорожает)

[thxnews]

US Fentanyl Crisis: Uniting for Action and Healing

  Secretary Blinken and Treasury Department Lead Joint Effort

In a resolute move to tackle the devastating overdose epidemic, the United States has intensified its multi-pronged approach, partnering closely with the Mexican government to designate three key members of the notorious Sinaloa Cartel. These individuals have been implicated in the illicit trafficking of fentanyl and other lethal drugs. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, spearheading this effort, highlighted the imperative of a comprehensive strategy aimed at curbing the global health and security threats posed by synthetic drugs.   Combating the Crisis Through Strengthened Measures The rise in the production and trafficking of synthetic drugs has exacerbated the opioid overdose epidemic in the United States. This issue has not gone unnoticed by President Biden, whose National Drug Control Strategy emphasizes bolstering public health while systematically dismantling criminal networks profiting from American deaths. As part of this broader mission, today's designations mark a pivotal step in disrupting the flow of illicit fentanyl and its precursors into American communities. By targeting key players in the drug trade, the U.S. government aims to starve criminal organizations of the funding vital for their operations, underscoring the nation's dedication to saving lives on a global scale.  

Trio of Designations Strikes Blow to Cartel Operations

In a concerted effort to impede the illicit trafficking of deadly substances, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has taken significant action. Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian E. Nelson expressed the gravity of this move, stating that it aims to disrupt all aspects of the drug supply chain, effectively crippling criminal entities that perpetuate the crisis.   Collaboration at the Core of Success This synchronized initiative between the U.S. and Mexican governments showcases the power of collaboration. La Unidad de Inteligencia Financiera, Mexico's Financial Intelligence Unit, played a vital role in this joint endeavor. Close coordination with various law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration's San Diego Field Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation's San Diego Field Office, has led to the identification and designation of these high-profile figures.  

Arzate Garcia Brothers and Felix Nuñez: The Architects of Mayhem

Among those designated are Alfonso Arzate Garcia and his brother, Rene Arzate Garcia. Operating as influential "plaza bosses" for the Sinaloa Cartel in Baja California, Mexico, they oversee drug trafficking operations, particularly in Tijuana and neighboring areas. Their involvement in importing substantial quantities of illicit substances, including fentanyl, into the U.S. has further deepened the crisis. The Arzate Garcia brothers, known for their extreme violence, also play a role in executing enforcement actions, such as kidnappings and executions.   A Criminal's Evolution and Continued Pursuit Rafael Guadalupe Felix Nuñez, also known as "El Changuito Antrax," has a history steeped in criminal activity. Beginning his career as a hitman for the Sinaloa Cartel, he evolved into a significant leader within the organization. After a daring escape from prison, Felix Nuñez solidified his position as a ruthless Sinaloa Cartel leader in the city of Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico. This port city, a gateway for illicit drugs, holds a pivotal role in the global drug trade, making Felix Nuñez a significant player in the network's operations.  

Sanctions Echo Bold Intentions

These designations, executed under Executive Order 14059, underline the U.S. government's resolve to counter the international proliferation of illicit drugs. Through this order, all property and interests in the U.S. belonging to these individuals are blocked and subject to reporting. Entities that are at least 50 percent owned by these designated figures are also subject to the same restrictions, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of this strategy.   Unyielding Commitment to Public Health and Safety By taking these decisive measures, the United States is signaling its unyielding commitment to protecting public health and safety. These actions contribute to the Biden-Harris Administration's comprehensive approach to combatting the overdose epidemic, which combines efforts to treat addiction and cut off the drug trafficking profits that fuel the crisis. This approach aligns with the President's Unity Agenda, exemplified by substantial investments in public health initiatives spanning research, prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.  

A Path Forward: Holding Criminal Actors Accountable

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), in collaboration with U.S. and international partners, remains steadfast in its mission to hold foreign illicit drug actors accountable. The power of OFAC sanctions rests not only in designations but also in their potential removal, contingent upon a demonstrated positive change in behavior. This overarching goal of fostering positive change underscores the administration's unwavering commitment to global health and security. In an era plagued by the catastrophic consequences of illicit drug trafficking, the actions taken today by the United States, in tandem with Mexico, serve as a beacon of hope. Through a united front and a multi-faceted strategy, these nations stand resolute in their pursuit of dismantling criminal networks, saving lives, and restoring security to communities.   Sources: THX News, The Treasury & US Department of State. Read the full article