Esther Salifu
A 20-year-old woman traveling alone from Foz do Iguaçu to São Paulo died suddenly on a bus, revealing a suspected smuggling operation after 26 iPhones were found glued to her body.
During a scheduled stop in Guarapuava, Paraná, the woman experienced severe respiratory distress and convulsions. Emergency responders from the Mobile Emergency Care Service (SAMU) attempted resuscitation for 45 minutes but were unsuccessful.
While providing medical assistance, paramedics discovered multiple packages strapped to her torso, later identified as 26 iPhones. No narcotics were detected by sniffer dogs, but several bottles of alcohol were found in her luggage and seized.
The Paraná Civil Police stated, “The Paraná Civil Police are investigating the case and awaiting the conclusion of forensic reports to clarify the cause of death.”
Authorities suspect the woman may have been acting as a “mula,” or smuggling courier, transporting electronics from Paraguay. The case has been handed over to the Federal Police for further investigation.
The exact cause of death remains undetermined pending forensic analysis.
