Brazil－Drug trafficking Guidance 23 May 2024 No.1275 Tweet Download PDF (289KB) We have obtained the Practical Guidance on Shipborne Drug Trafficking in Brazil from the local correspondent Representaçoes Proinde Ltda.   All Brazilian ports are vulnerable to drug smuggling threats to varying degrees. Members are recommended to strengthen preventive measures by referring to the guidance.   To get an overview, a summary of the guidance is provided below. For more information, please see the attachment.   The drug problem Brazil is the second largest consumer market, behind the United States, and plays a significant role as a strategic hub to sustain international drug trafficking.   Legal framework The criminal penalties for drug trafficking range from five to fifteen years in prison, plus a fine. In the case of interstate or transnational drug trafficking, the penalty is increased by one-third to two-thirds.   Port security arrangement The Navy Commander acts as a maritime authority. The Federal Police are tasked with combating illegal drug trafficking.   Shipborne drug trafficking Commercial vessels of all sizes and types have become major conduits for the international drug trade. The most common drug shipped from Brazilian ports is cocaine.   Drug smuggling methods The coronavirus pandemic has triggered changes in maritime cocaine trafficking patterns. Containers remain the preferred method for transporting large amounts of cocaine from Brazil. Drugs are being discovered in increasing volumes inside ships, cargo compartments, deck spaces, or attached to hulls and structures below the waterline. The cocaine has been buried in the bulk cargo or concealed somewhere on deck, as well as ro-ro ships, where the narcotics are hidden inside vehicles and on multiple decks. The narcotic is stashed in the hull, inside the underwater compartment, particularly sea chests, accessible only from the outside of the vessel with diving gear. It is un