Ecuador police seize half a tonne of cocaine bearing Erling Haaland branding

Ecuadorian police announced that a large cocaine shipment seized in Quito contained dozens of bricks stamped with the name and image of Norwegian striker Erling Haaland. The operation, carried out by the country’s anti‑drug unit, recovered more than 300 kilograms of the drug and a cache of promotional material that featured Haaland’s likeness. Police officials said the markings were likely intended to attract attention or serve as a marketing gimmick, but they did not find any evidence linking the footballer to the trafficking operation.

The seized material was uncovered during a routine raid on a warehouse in the city’s industrial zone, where authorities discovered a series of drug‑laden bricks wrapped in foil and labeled with Haaland’s name and a stylized portrait. Law‑enforcement officials stated that the use of a high‑profile sports figure’s brand was an unusual tactic, possibly aimed at creating a buzz or misleading buyers about the origin of the product. The Ecuadorian Anti‑Drug Agency is still investigating how the packaging was produced and whether it was part of a broader distribution network.

No contact has been established between Haaland or his representatives and the drug traffickers, and the player’s agent has issued a brief statement denying any involvement. The authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to the case, and the investigation is ongoing as officials work to trace the source of the illicit goods and the individuals responsible for the marketing scheme.