Ecuador mixes seized cocaine with cement to prevent its reuse

Nathan Rivera

09/01/2023

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The Ecuadorian authorities began to use a method called encapsulation by which mix cocaine powder with cement to make concrete blocks and thus avoid its recovery and reuse and quickly destroy this illegal substance.

Cocaine hydrochloride is ground into a powder, mixed with cement, salt, and chemical accelerators to form a substance that is then poured into molds. After drying, it hardens completely, in such a way that it is impossible to extract the cocaine.

The Undersecretary for Drug Control of the Ministry of the Interior, Edmundo Mera, explained the method in an interview with the portal InSightCrime and highlighted that from the beginning of the year and until October 14, 2022, Ecuador had destroyed almost 180 tons of drugs in total, and 61 percent were destroyed using the potting technique.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) recommends encapsulation as a viable way to dispose of drugs and toxic materials used in drug processing, but Ecuador is the first country to destroy cocaine on such a large scale with this method, said a UNODC expert on synthetic drugs, Martin Raithelhuber, in statements to InSightCrime.

It is also a fast and very necessary method in Ecuador, where In ports alone, seizures have increased by 42 percent in 2022.

The encapsulation allows destroy up to 1,500 kilos of drugs per hour, while incineration is limited to 70 kilos per hour.

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Nathan Rivera
Allow me to introduce myself. I am Nathan Rivera, a dedicated journalist who has had the privilege of writing for the online newspaper Today90. My journey in the world of journalism has been a testament to the power of dedication, integrity, and passion.

My story began with a relentless thirst for knowledge and an innate curiosity about the events shaping our world. I graduated with honors in Investigative Journalism from a renowned university, laying the foundation for what would become a fulfilling career in the field.

What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. I refuse to settle for superficial answers or preconceived narratives. Instead, I constantly challenge the status quo, delving deep into complex issues to reveal the reality beneath the surface. My dedication to investigative journalism has uncovered numerous scandals and shed light on issues others might prefer to ignore.

I am also a staunch advocate for press freedom. I have tirelessly fought to protect the rights of journalists and have faced significant challenges in my quest to inform the public truthfully and without constraints. My courage in defending these principles serves as an example to all who believe in the power of journalism to change the world.

Throughout my career, I have been honored with numerous awards and recognitions for my outstanding work in journalism. My investigations have changed policies, exposed corruption, and given a voice to those who had none. My commitment to truth and justice makes me a beacon of hope in a world where misinformation often prevails.

At Today90, I continue to be a driving force behind journalistic excellence. My tireless dedication to fair and accurate reporting is an invaluable asset to the editorial team. My biography is a living testament to the importance of journalism in our society and a reminder that a dedicated journalist can make a difference in the world.

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