The U.S. Coast Guard has reported a series of significant drug seizures, intercepting multiple vessels suspected of smuggling illicit substances. These operations, conducted in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, resulted in the confiscation of a substantial amount of cocaine. Specifically, the crew of the USCG Cutter Midgett seized approximately 21,126 pounds of cocaine, estimated to be worth around $156.4 million, during operations off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America. The agency said in a news release that the drugs were offloaded in San Diego.
Another significant seizure involved the USCG Cutter Diligence, which intercepted a vessel approximately 240 miles north of Panama. From this vessel, the Coast Guard recovered 8,700 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated value of $64.5 million. These drugs were subsequently offloaded in Florida. The Coast Guard’s actions, particularly in the case of the Diligence, included the sinking of the suspected drug vessel, a practice undertaken to prevent maritime hazards, as a spokesperson explained. The agency also shared a photo of the vessel on fire following the seizure.
These interdictions are part of the broader Operation Pacific Viper, a focused effort by the Coast Guard to combat drug trafficking in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The Coast Guard also noted that another alleged drug boat was left burning in the eastern Pacific Ocean in August. The Coast Guard’s efforts reflect the significant role the agency plays in intercepting narcotics at sea, with approximately 80% of drugs destined for the United States being seized during maritime transport. This highlights the critical importance of the Pacific Ocean as a major route for illicit drug trafficking. Recent actions by the administration, which include conducted multiple deadly strikes on alleged drug vessels, and a directive to the military to target cartels in August, underscore the administration’s commitment to combating drug trafficking in Central and South America.
