Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to solidify its position as a key tool for strengthening customs controls. In this context, three backpacks with 45 kilos 500 grams of cocaine hydrochloride They were detected in the cab of a vegetable truck, thanks to the use of X-ray scanner truck, advanced technology which the Chilean National Customs Service incorporated in 2026.
The procedure was registered during the early morning at the Quillagua checkpoint, which is part of the Iquique Customs, and the driver was placed in preventive detention for the 120 days set as the investigation period.
This was reported on Tuesday (February 10, 2026) by the Chilean National Customs Service. In that context, the Regional Director (acting) of the Iquique Customs Office, Claudia Rojas Escobar, He explained that during the inspection processes carried out at the Quillagua outpost, “The operators of the institutional scanner truck selected for a special inspection a truck loaded with 25 kilos of vegetables traveling from Arica to Santiago.”
After reviewing the images provided by the non-invasive technology of the scanner truck, the official added, a special physical inspection was carried out, in which three backpacks were found containing 41 packages with 45 kilos 500 grams of high purity cocaine hydrochloride.
Once the presence of the drug was confirmed, the Public Prosecutor's Office and the police on duty were notified for the custody and transfer of both the accused and the illicit substance.
The detainee, identified as a Chilean truck driver, was formally charged with drug trafficking by Assistant Prosecutor Sebastián Barahona of the Pozo Almonte Prosecutor's Office. The judge ruled the arrest legal and ordered that the defendant remain in pretrial detention for the 120 days established as the investigation period.
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