Bolivian authorities intercepted a transport bus bearing the official emblems of São Paulo FC after discovering approximately 86 kilograms of marijuana hidden inside the vehicle, according to local law enforcement reports. The vehicle, which was intended to transport the Brazilian football club during an away fixture in South America, was stopped in the central region of the country before ever picking up the squad.
Police Intercept Vehicle in Cochabamba Department
The incident unfolded when anti-drug police units stopped the transport vehicle in Villa Tunari, located within the coca-producing Cochabamba department, according to law enforcement officials. Inside the bus, officers located dozens of rectangular packages containing a greenish substance that laboratory testing subsequently confirmed to be marijuana. Local media reports placed the total weight of the illicit cargo at roughly 86 kilograms, which had been concealed inside ordinary shopping bags.
Anti-drug authorities detained three individuals in connection with the seizure, according to police statements.
Transport Company Exonerates São Paulo FC
Cosmos, the transport company contracted for the logistics operation, moved quickly to distance the Brazilian club from the criminal investigation. In an official letter sent to São Paulo FC, the company confirmed that the team never boarded the vehicle in question and that an entirely separate bus had been allocated for player transportation.
“The team of Sao Paulo did not use this bus, another one was assigned to it,” the transport company stated in correspondence obtained by Agence France-Presse. “We specify that full responsibility lies with the Bolivian drivers.”
Copa Sudamericana Context in La Paz
The logistical mix-up and subsequent police raid coincided with São Paulo FC’s travel itinerary in Bolivia. The Brazilian side traveled to the country to face Bolívar in La Paz for the opening leg of the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16, a continental tournament equivalent to Europe’s UEFA Europa League.
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