Inside the Dark Underworld of the Global Drug Trade

Peru is now one of the world's biggest cocaine producers, supplying more than 20 billion pounds worth of cocaine annually.

Cocaine production has increased in Peru as the demand decreased in Colombia due to successful law enforcement efforts.

The journey of cocaine from production to distribution involves dangerous transportation routes through treacherous terrain.

Local communities in the drug-producing regions often rely on the drug trade for their livelihoods, despite the risks involved.

The government's attempts to eradicate cocoa plantations have been met with resistance due to the cultural and economic significance of the crop.

What is the annual value of cocaine produced in Peru?

—Peru produces over 20 billion pounds worth of cocaine every year.

Why has cocaine production increased in Peru?

—As law enforcement efforts in Colombia became more successful, the production shifted to Peru to meet the demand.

What are the risks involved in transporting cocaine?

—Transporting cocaine involves navigating dangerous routes through treacherous terrains and facing the threat of rival gangs.

Why do local communities rely on the drug trade?

—The drug trade provides livelihoods for many people in drug-producing regions, despite the risks involved.

Why have attempts to eradicate cocoa plantations faced resistance?

—Cocoa plantations have cultural and economic significance, and many farmers depend on the crop for their livelihoods.

00:00Introduction to the dark underworld of the global drug trade.

06:11Peru has become a major cocaine producer, surpassing Colombia.

10:27The journey of cocaine from production to distribution involves dangerous transportation routes through treacherous terrains.

14:19Exploring cocoa plantations in Peru, where the crop is legal but processing it into cocaine is a crime.

17:50Follow a group of backpackers, known as muleros, as they transport cocaine through the jungle.

18:35Visit a cocoa leaf plantation and learn about the cultural and economic significance of the crop.