The principal crossing point from Venezuela into Colombia, the frontier city of Cúcuta, has seen rising levels of violence as it struggles to confront the growing strength of Venezuelan criminal groups.
A recent case, together with several past investigations, shows how the music and events industry is being used by organized crime groups to launder money.
For the second time in just over a year, the body of Colombian women was found in a suitcase and the primary suspect is again a foreigner from North America.
The powerful criminal networks that are deeply rooted throughout the Amazon basin increasingly pursue environmental crimes as a lucrative income source.
It is an election year in Venezuela, and President Nicolás Maduro is determined to cling to power. His criminal alliances will be crucial for the survival of his regime.