Paraguayan authorities seized over 4 tons of cocaine, valued at approximately $240 million, hidden in a sugar shipment destined for Belgium, according to the country’s anti-drug agency, Senad.

The operation, dubbed “Operation Sweetness,” is the largest drug bust in Paraguay’s history and took place at the seaport in the capital, Asuncion.

Following the detection of a suspicious shipment, Senad coordinated with other government agencies to carry out the bust.

More containers are being inspected, with investigations focusing on the criminal organization responsible for the logistics.

One person, a truck driver who allegedly delivered the drug shipment to the seaport, has been detained.

Senad’s Minister Jalil Rachid indicated that an organized criminal group is likely behind the shipment, CNN has reported.

Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña emphasized that while Paraguay is not a cocaine producer, it is used as a transit route for drug trafficking.

He expressed hope that this major bust would deter traffickers and send a strong message to organized crime groups.

Written by B.C. Begley