In 2022, two government ministers in Paraguay were dismissed for alleged ties to an organised criminal group in the country. The Interior Minister and the head of the National Emergency Agency were both fired for links to a Brazilian drug trafficker with operations in Paraguay. This trafficker was tied to a criminal group allegedly moved cocaine by air from other countries, especially Bolivia, into Paraguay and then on to consumer markets in Europe and Africa. In addition, a cattle rancher in Paraguay was arrested for his alleged part in the drug trafficking operation, where he laundered proceeds from the operation through various businesses he owned. During police raids connected with the case, thousands of cattle were seized as well. This highlights the interconnected nature of organised crime in the country with key industries that lead to deforestation, in this case namely the cattle industry.