In an unusual display of international cooperation, Peruvian police officers dressed as World Cup mascots Clutch and Maple to carry out a drugs raid in Lima. The mascots represent the United States and Canada, respectively, for the 2026 World Cup.
Police Disguise as Mascots
Colonel Carlos Fredy Alcántara Obregón, head of the police's Green Squad, explained that intelligence indicated the suspect was a passionate football fan. "We proceeded to disguise my Green Squad personnel as World Cup mascots in order to approach him without arousing suspicion and make the arrest," he told the Associated Press.
Mascot Characteristics
According to FIFA, Clutch the Bald Eagle "leads by action – rallying teammates, lifting spirits and turning every challenge into an opportunity to rise higher," making him ideal for high-pressure situations. Maple the Moose is described as "a street style-loving artist," allowing the moose to blend into Lima's underworld.
Zayu the Jaguar, the third mascot, was unavailable for the raid as it does not work Wednesdays.
The operation highlights a rare moment of cooperation between the US and Canada, amid rising tensions over Donald Trump's threats to annex Canada.
