Queensland Woman Veronica Watson Arrested as Drug Runner in Brazil
Veronica Watson, a 59-year-old grandmother from Queensland, is set to spend Christmas behind bars in a Brazilian jail after being arrested for attempting to leave the country with cocaine hidden in her luggage. Watson, who had never traveled outside of Australia before, was detained on December 1 at São Paulo’s airport, allegedly carrying 1483 grams of cocaine in a hidden compartment within her suitcase.
Watson’s family, however, believes she is the victim of an online scam. Her daughter, Sam Watson, explained to 7NEWS that Veronica had been lured to Brazil under the pretense of a business deal, where she was asked to sign documents for an investment scheme that promised significant financial rewards.
Despite warnings from her family, Veronica went ahead with the trip, believing she was helping people she met online. Her husband, Stephen, recalled that Veronica was suddenly planning the trip and did not seem to understand the risks involved. He asked her repeatedly how she could trust the people involved and whether she knew what she was signing, but she was adamant about going.
Veronica’s family is devastated by the situation. Her husband described feeling “a wreck,” and her daughter expressed shock and disbelief after learning of her mother’s arrest. Veronica sent a letter from the overcrowded and underfunded Santana Women’s Penitentiary, apologizing to her family and stating that she wasn’t aware of what was happening.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs is assisting Veronica, but she faces a long and expensive legal battle ahead. As her communications are limited, her family remains supportive, with her daughter expressing her love and concern for her mother.
