Criminal10/23/2026

Israeli Arrested in Bolivia on Suspicion of Importing Cocaine

An Israeli suspected of involvement in bringing 5.3 kg of cocaine into Israel in 2017 was arrested in the Bolivian city of Santa Cruz. Local law enforcement authorities and the Israel Police attaché for South America and Latin America, Lt. Col. Walter Kogan, took part in the operation.

Key facts

•Suspicion: importing 5.3 kg of cocaine
•Alleged date of importation into Israel: 2017
•Place of arrest: Santa Cruz, Bolivia
•He had been wanted for nine years
•Proceedings were initiated to advance his extradition to Israel

What the Detainee Is Suspected Of

According to a police statement, the man is suspected of involvement in transporting 5.3 kg of cocaine from Bolivia to Israel via a courier. He was declared a fugitive nine years ago; he was reportedly living in South America. The suspect’s name was not mentioned in the publication.

How the Arrest Was Carried Out

In recent months, Walter Kogan received information about the wanted man’s place of residence and passed it on to the Bolivian police. Following operational and intelligence activity, the suspected hiding place was located, and Kogan joined the local forces during the arrest in Santa Cruz.

What Is Expected Next

Following the arrest, proceedings were initiated to advance the suspect’s extradition to Israel. The source does not state whether a final decision has been made regarding extradition, what charges will be filed, or when the man might be transferred to Israel. The report also does not include a judicial ruling on the substance of the suspicions.

What this means for you

An arrest abroad does not mean that the person has been convicted: at this stage, the facts described remain police suspicions. Transferring the suspect to Israel requires a separate extradition proceeding involving the Bolivian authorities, after which criminal proceedings may continue in Israel.

Find a lawyer for this topic

Case analysis based on court rulings