16-11-2024 (BUENOS AIRES) Argentine law enforcement authorities have uncovered a significant collection of Third Reich weaponry and Nazi memorabilia during a raid on a private residence in Quilmes, a suburb of Buenos Aires, marking one of the largest discoveries of Nazi artefacts in recent years.
The operation, conducted with support from the Buenos Aires Holocaust Museum, led to the arrest of one individual and the seizure of an extensive arsenal of Nazi-era weapons. The collection included 43 rifles bearing Third Reich insignia, 15 pistols, five bayonets, and a machine gun, all dating back to the Second World War period.
Investigators revealed that the suspect came to their attention following intelligence shared by Bosnian federal police, who had flagged the individual’s suspicious activities during his overseas travel. The raid also yielded an array of Nazi memorabilia, including military uniforms, flags, headgear, and busts of Adolf Hitler.
“This operation represents a significant breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to combat the preservation and glorification of Nazi ideology,” said Commissioner Maria Rodriguez of the Argentine Federal Police. The action was carried out under Argentina’s anti-discrimination legislation, which prohibits the promotion of Nazi ideology.
The discovery has particular resonance in Argentina, given the country’s historical connection to former Nazi officials who sought refuge there after World War II. Most notably, Adolf Eichmann, a key architect of the Holocaust, lived in Buenos Aires until his capture by Israeli agents in 1960.
Dr Jonathan Klein, a historian specialising in post-war Nazi migration patterns, noted: “This find demonstrates the enduring presence of Nazi memorabilia in Argentina, reflecting a dark chapter in the country’s history as a haven for fleeing Nazi war criminals.”
The raid follows similar law enforcement actions, including last year’s closure of a bookshop that was discovered selling Nazi literature through online channels.
