INTEGRATION OF SPECIAL INVESTIGATIVE TECHNIQUES IN THE SUPPRESSION OF INTERSTATE DRUG TRAFFICKING: REFLECTIONS FROM A CASE STUDY IN THE CIVIL POLICE OF MINAS GERAIS

Abstract

This article analyzes the integrated application of special investigative techniques in combating interstate drug trafficking, based on a case study conducted within the scope of the Civil Police of Minas Gerais, known as Operation “396”. Considering the complexity of contemporary criminal organizations, characterized by functional task division, territorial mobility, intensive use of communication technologies, and asset concealment mechanisms, the study adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach grounded in documentary analysis of institutional reports, telematic interceptions, field operations, and financial intelligence data. The analysis shows that integrating these techniques enables the reconstruction of the criminal organization’s modus operandi, as well as the identification of logistical, communicational, and economic patterns associated with large-scale drug trafficking. By articulating the case study with publicly available data on criminality in Minas Gerais, the article provides a contextualized understanding of the phenomenon and of the methodological demands imposed on contemporary criminal investigations.