Interpol announces results of major sweep of illicit drug labs in the region

LYON, France – A total of 200 kilograms of methamphetamine, cocaine and LSD were seized in four clandestine laboratories during a major operation conducted by Interpol in Latin America and the Caribbean, the police agency based in Lyon, France, said on Tuesday.

The operation, dubbed “Icebreaker,” was conducted in conjunction with the World Customs Organization and the International Narcotics Control Board. It took place in late 2012 in 11 countries: Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua and Panama.

During the operation, 25 people were arrested and more than 360 tons of chemicals used to manufacture drugs were found. Police also seized nearly $2 million in cash. It was coordinated by the Interpol regional office in San Salvador, Interpol said in a press release.

“The results send a clear message to criminal networks that support this illegal business. … We will identify those responsible, and we will bring them to justice,” said Bernd Rossbach, director of the Interpol unit targeting organized crime.