ECUADOR – The world’s streets are just a bit safer from the perils of a half ton of drugs, thanks to authorities in Ecuador and a plucky bunch of bananas. Officials uncovered a shipment of cocaine hidden in the fruit over the weekend, that was originally intended for the shores of Belgium. 

The seizure took place at the Port of Machala in Ecuador’s El Oro province, according to news source Prensa Latina. During a physical control and inspection, the true contents of a cargo of banana boxes were revealed. This recovery then led to another, named Operation Freedom.

Together with the Colombian police, officials in the Santa Elena province successfully carried out a raid that seized 250 bricks of cocaine, one vehicle, two outboard motors, and 23 detainees. Freeing any other bananas from potential abuse.

Deputy Minister of Homeland Security Diego Fuentes stated on his Twitter account that the initial detainee was being held at the Ports and Airports Information Unit and the Regional Center for Canine Training.

The news source stated that the illegal trespassers of the bananas may also have been bound for the United States as well.

This isn't the first time German-bound Ecuadorian bananas have been vessels for cocaine. As we reported last month, 384 kilograms of the drug were found hidden within 26 cases of bananas that originated from Ecuador.

Will authorities and fresh fruit and vegetables continue to prevail over the nefarious intentions of the criminal underworld? AndNowUKnow will report.