According to the latest Colombian Customs Police (POLFA) report, the task force carried out more than 31,000 operations against smuggling organizations in the country, resulting in the seizure of more than 102 million articles and merchandise in excess of USD 57 million.
Throughout 2022, 44 criminal organizations were dismantled, and 311 persons were arrested for smuggling, money laundering, and other related crimes, which generated an economic impact of approximately USD 975 million. The industries with the highest impact were apparel at 41%, footwear 12%, tobacco 6%, and the automotive and pharmaceutical sectors at 5%.
The POLFA is preparing to face huge challenges in 2023 and will take strategic actions with the Attorney General’s Office to protect Colombia’s economic order and tackle criminal finances dedicated to smuggling, especially in the country’s ports and major cities.
