Key Insights
Why did Andre Gonçalves decide to investigate Fox's yacht?
Andre Gonçalves received a tip-off from Britain’s National Crime Agency about a suspicious yacht believed to be carrying cocaine from Europe to Brazil. He was determined to fix what he saw as a grave injustice for the sailors involved.
How did Andre Gonçalves initially locate Fox's yacht?
Andre Gonçalves and his team focused their search on the Bay of Aratu, a vast area with many small islands and inlets. They eventually found the yacht, the Rich Harvest, by its two distinctive towering masts.
What challenges did Andre Gonçalves face during the surveillance of Fox's yacht?
The yacht was difficult to locate due to its lack of identifying markers like a flag or boat number. Additionally, the yacht underwent complex renovations, making it hard to determine if a crime was being committed without a formal investigation.
How did Andre Gonçalves and his team gather intelligence on Fox's yacht?
They used covert actions, such as visiting the marina without identifying themselves and pretending to be interested in buying the yacht. They also gathered information from the mechanic and other marina staff.
Why did Andre Gonçalves become suspicious of Fox's behavior after his return from a trip south?
Upon Fox's return, Andre noticed a change in his behavior, including increased isolation on the boat and restricted access. Fox also started doing renovations himself, which raised alarm bells.
What evidence did Andre Gonçalves have to convince a judge to issue an arrest warrant for Fox?
Andre had evidence from the tip-off, Fox's payment for yacht renovations, his trip south, and modifications to the boat's internal structures where the drugs were later found. However, Fox was not seen with any drugs.
Why was Fox eventually released despite the arrest warrant?
Fox was released because the paperwork for his extradition to Brazil arrived too late. Despite Andre's efforts, Fox was freed without having to face justice in Brazil.
How did the sailors, Rodrigo and Daniel, manage to get released from prison in Cape Verde?
Their sentences were overturned on a technicality, and they were released on remand after reaching the maximum length of time someone can be held without conviction in Cape Verde.
What is Andre Gonçalves's view on the involvement of Rodrigo and Daniel in the drug smuggling operation?
Andre believes Rodrigo and Daniel are innocent, based on the testimony of Robert Delbos and the lack of evidence linking them to the drugs.
What is the current status of Fox's legal situation?
Fox remains at large, and the investigation is closed in Brazil. However, if he is ever located, he can still be held accountable by Brazilian justice.
Chapters
- Tip-off received from the National Crime Agency
- Suspicion of drug smuggling on the Rich Harvest yacht
- Andre Gonçalves tasked with overseeing Brazil's response
Shownotes Transcript
