Peruvian police capture drug trafficker disguised as World Cup mascots

Peru’s National Police used the World Cup mascots Clutch and Maple as a ruse to arrest a suspected drug trafficker in Lima, exploiting his passion for football. The operation unfolded in a residential area where the suspect was spotted by officers dressed as the mascots.

Disguises allowed the police to approach without raising suspicion, leading to a swift apprehension. Authorities highlighted the tactic as an innovative example of crime‑fighting creativity during the tournament.

The incident underscores the broader social impact of the World Cup in host nations.