A Decisive Blow to Drug Trafficking in the Heart of the City
On August 21, 2026, the head of the Government of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Jorge Macri, confirmed a significant anti-drug operation in the Constitución neighborhood, one of the most problematic areas in the Argentine capital due to its heavy foot traffic and train terminals. Through his official Twitter account, Macri detailed the results: 17 people arrested and 8,700 doses of cocaine and pasta base seized.
His message, posted at 3:16 PM, was emphatic: “These guys are done. Law and order.” This statement reinforces the security policy that the PRO party has been implementing across the city.
What is Pasta Base?
Pasta base (also known as 'pacoco' in some regions) is an intermediate product in the processing of coca leaves. It is highly addictive and typically smoked, producing rapid but short-lived effects that often lead to compulsive consumption. Its illegal sale is a primary funding source for micro-trafficking in vulnerable neighborhoods across Argentina.
Constitución: A Strategic Hotspot
Constitución is home to one of the country's largest train and subway terminals, with thousands of passengers passing through daily. This high-traffic environment makes it an attractive location for street-level drug sales. Police raids in the area are frequent, but few achieve seizures of this magnitude.
Operation at a Glance
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arrests | 17 |
| Doses of cocaine | 8,700 |
| Doses of pasta base | Included in the total |
| Announcement date | 21/08/2026 |
The announcement comes amid intense debate over security in the city. Macri, who assumed office as Head of Government in December 2023, has made the fight against drug trafficking a cornerstone of his administration. According to official sources, anti-drug operations in the city have increased notably over the past year, though consolidated statistics for 2026 are not yet available.
The information was shared directly by the city's top official, who often uses social media to communicate government actions. The original tweet can be viewed on his verified account: @jorgemacri.
As of now, no further details about the operation have been released, such as the exact location of the raids or the identities of those arrested. Authorities are expected to provide additional information in the coming hours.
The news has generated significant buzz on social media, with hundreds of supportive messages praising the operation, alongside calls for similar actions in other neighborhoods of the city. Macri's promise of “Law and order” appears to be gaining further ground.