Peruvian cops dressed as World Cup mascots to arrest an accused drug dealer during Mexico versus South Africa

Peruvian police arrested 48-year-old Carlos Cabrera while two undercover officers dressed as 2026 FIFA World Cup mascots during the tournament opener between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. According to the Associated Press, officers from Peru’s Green Squadron anti-crime unit disguised themselves as Clutch the Bald Eagle and Maple the Moose before entering Cabrera’s property in Lima and taking him into custody.

The unusual arrest took place on Thursday, June 11, 2026, while soccer fans across the globe watched the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. Authorities allege Cabrera engaged in drug trafficking. Police also reported recovering more than 2,5oo packets of cocaine base and a firearm during the operation.

Colonel Carlos Alcántara, head of the Green Squadron, told the Associated Press that intelligence work revealed the suspect’s enthusiasm for the tournament, leading officers to use the disguises to approach him without raising suspicion. Officers used a sledgehammer to enter the property before making the arrest.

Peruvian police use costumes in arrests, as Mexico’s World Cup opener meets domestic unrest

Clutch and Maple are two of the official mascots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States, Canada, and Mexico are jointly hosting. Clutch, a bald eagle, represents the United States, while Maple, a moose, represents Canada. Mexico’s mascot is Zayu, a jaguar inspired by Mesoamerican culture and the country’s wildlife.

Peru’s National Police have drawn international attention for similar undercover operations in recent years. Reuters has reported on raids involving officers dressed as Santa Claus, the Grinch, Marvel characters such as Deadpool and Wolverine, and even Freddy Krueger. Police have previously told reporters that the disguises help officers approach suspects without raising suspicion, according to ABC News Australia.

Separately, the opening match in Mexico City also drew headlines after protests outside Estadio Azteca led to clashes with police near the venue, highlighting the heightened security surrounding the tournament.

In the historic Zócalo plaza, home to the tournament’s main official fan zone, thousands of fans pushed and shoved as they tried to squeeze past metal barricades. Local officials ultimately declared the site full, leaving frustrated crowds outside, the Los Angeles Times reported.

At the same time, Mexico’s CNTE teachers’ union demanded pay raises near the site, which local authorities had actively tried to keep from international visitors. Together with the families of the disappeared and student activists, these groups intentionally used the tournament’s global broadcast to highlight domestic grievances.

Activists openly labeled the event the “World Cup of Dispossession,” due to skyrocketing ticket prices, often exceeding $3,000, and aggressive city “beautification” sweeps that cleared out local street vendors as proof that the government prioritized wealthy foreign tourists over its own citizens, according to CNBC Africa.