Former Deportivo Cali Goalkeeper Surrenders in Paraguay Amidst Drug Trafficking Investigation
Víctor Hugo Centurión, a former goalkeeper for Colombia’s Deportivo Cali, has surrendered to authorities in Paraguay following accusations of involvement in a drug trafficking network. The network is allegedly led by Sebastián Marset, a Uruguayan fugitive. This development highlights a troubling trend of organized crime infiltrating professional sports in South America.
From the Pitch to Potential Criminal Activity
Centurión, 39, played for Deportivo Cali between 2011 and 2012. Paraguayan authorities allege his role involved logistical support for the drug operation, specifically managing aircraft, fuel, and international contacts for the transport of drugs originating from Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. He has been remanded to Tacumbú prison in Asunción.
The investigation reveals a complex network. Centurión reportedly answered to Dionisio Cáceres, a former manager of the Rubio-Ñú football club, where Centurión also played. Cáceres is also a fugitive and is linked to both Alexis González Zárate and Sebastián Marset, considered one of South America’s most wanted drug traffickers.
The Use of Football as a Front for Illicit Activities
This case isn’t isolated. Authorities believe the criminal organization utilized professional football – including clubs and player transfers – to launder money and facilitate drug trafficking operations. This method allows for the movement of large sums of capital through legitimate financial channels, obscuring the illegal origins of the funds.
The Fiscalía (Prosecutor’s Office) in Paraguay has charged Centurión with international drug trafficking, criminal association, and drug distribution, offenses that carry a potential sentence of up to 22 years in prison.
A Growing Concern: Organized Crime and South American Football
The involvement of former footballers in criminal activities is a recurring issue in the region. Sebastián Marset himself has a background in football, having played in Paraguay and Bolivia. This raises concerns about the vulnerability of the sport to infiltration by organized crime groups.
The case echoes similar instances of footballers becoming entangled with drug cartels, highlighting the demand for increased scrutiny of financial transactions within the sport and greater collaboration between law enforcement agencies across South America.
Did you understand?
Sebastián Marset, the alleged leader of the drug trafficking network, is considered the most wanted drug trafficker in South America.
FAQ
Q: What charges does Víctor Centurión face?
A: He faces charges of international drug trafficking, criminal association, and drug distribution, with a potential sentence of up to 22 years.
Q: Who is Sebastián Marset?
A: He is a Uruguayan fugitive and is alleged to be the leader of the drug trafficking network Centurión is accused of being involved with.
Q: How was football allegedly used in this scheme?
A: Authorities believe clubs and player transfers were used to launder money and facilitate drug trafficking operations.
Q: What is the current status of Dionisio Cáceres?
A: Dionisio Cáceres is also a fugitive and is wanted by Paraguayan authorities.
Pro Tip: Increased financial oversight and due diligence in player transfers are crucial steps in combating the use of football as a front for criminal activity.
Stay informed about the intersection of sports and crime. Explore more articles on international investigations and the fight against drug trafficking.
