The Federal Police launched Operation Illegal Route on this Wednesday (19/11), aimed at dismantling a criminal network involved in migrant smuggling with connections in Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Mexico, and the United States. According to the Federal Police, there are indications that the group facilitated the illegal exit of Asian citizens via land route to the Mexican border.

The measures adopted by the Justice include search and seizure warrants, temporary arrest of the main suspect, seizure of passports, and restrictions on the movement of other suspects. The action is part of an international investigation that involves cooperation from foreign intelligence agencies.

In the financial sphere, the Federal Police obtained authorization to block up to R$ 5,94 million in assets of the suspects, including cryptocurrencies, as well as real estate, vehicles, boats, and aircraft. This blockade is strategic to "financially suffocate" the criminal network and hinder the continuation of its operations.

According to the investigation, the use of cryptocurrencies allowed the organization to conceal the origin of funds and accelerate international transfers without going through the traditional banking system. The Federal Police emphasizes that, even with cryptocurrency transactions, the connection between wallets and identities can allow for effective blockages when the illicit origin is proven.