Exclusive sources revealed to Zaman al-Wasl that Brazilian authorities have foiled an unprecedented smuggling attempt that began in Uruguay and entered the capital, Brasilia. M. Youssef, the nephew of Syrian Consul Gabriel Youssef, was arrested while using an official diplomatic vehicle belonging to the Syrian embassy to transport a shipment of 150 iPhones that had been illegally brought into the country.
Information indicates that the operation took place outside the official customs framework, in clear violation of Brazilian laws and a blatant abuse of diplomatic privileges.
The incident sparked outrage from the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which summoned representatives from the Syrian embassy. Questions remain about the position of the Syrian ambassador to Brasilia, Rania al-Hajj, who has yet to issue any clarification.
Brazilian authorities are withholding further details pending the completion of the investigation. Initial information indicates the possible involvement of other embassy employees, especially since the shipment was transported in a diplomatic vehicle designated for official transportation.
The ambassador has not yet officially informed Damascus, amid widespread discontent within the Brazilian Foreign Ministry.
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