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Mafia Leader Arrested as Colombia's Cocaine Production Soars

7/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Colombian authorities have apprehended Giuseppe Palermo, a suspected leader of the notorious Italian ‘Ndrangheta mafia, following an Interpol red notice. Palermo, who orchestrated cocaine shipments to Europe, was captured in a joint operation with Italian and British police. Meanwhile, Colombia's cocaine production surged to 3,708 tonnes in 2023, fueled by rampant coca cultivation.

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Story summary

Colombian authorities have apprehended Giuseppe Palermo, a suspected leader of the notorious Italian ‘Ndrangheta mafia, following an Interpol red notice. Palermo, who orchestrated cocaine shipments to Europe, was captured in a joint operation with Italian and British police. Meanwhile, Colombia's cocaine production surged to 3,708 tonnes in 2023, fueled by rampant coca cultivation.