The U.S. Coast Guard made a significant dent in the drug trade on July 17 as it offloaded over $158mn worth of illegal drugs seized during a successful drug-bust operation. The confiscated drugs included more than 5,262 kilograms of cocaine and 2,495 kilograms of marijuana, all seized during counternarcotics patrols conducted in the Eastern Pacific Ocean between May and June, as per the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
The Coast Guard Cutters Vigilant, Mohawk, and Steadfast played a crucial role in intercepting and seizing illicit narcotics, displaying their unwavering commitment to combating transnational organized crime and preventing the drugs from reaching the United States. Rear Adm. Andrew Sugimoto, commander of the Coast Guard Eleventh District, commended the efforts of the crews.
"Their unwavering commitment while interdicting drug smugglers at sea is not only commended, but their continued efforts are unmatched," Andrew Sugimoto stated.
This successful operation was a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, highlighting the dedication and coordination among law enforcement entities. The U.S. Department of Defense, the Justice Department, Homeland Security, the FBI, Customs and Border Protection, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement all provided assistance to the USCG. Furthermore, the Mexican Navy also contributed to the joint operation, reinforcing the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Commander Brock Eckel, the commanding officer of the Coast Guard's Steadfast, expressed pride in his team's accomplishments.
"Nothing is guaranteed when a Coast Guard crew says 'goodbye' to loved ones and embarks on a multi-month patrol," Commander Brock Eckel noted.
He further highlighted the hard work and dedication of his crew, who worked tirelessly day and night to intercept three smuggling vessels, successfully preventing over five tons of illicit narcotics from reaching American soil.
This recent drug offload in San Diego follows another major seizure made by the USCG last month in Miami. The Coast Guard offloaded more than 6,350 kilograms of cocaine, valued at over $186mn, which were confiscated during separate cases in the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. As a result of that operation, a dozen smugglers were arrested and are currently facing prosecution by the Justice Department in federal courts.
These successful drug interdictions underscore the ongoing efforts of the U.S. Coast Guard to combat the flow of illicit drugs into the United States. Their dedication and collaboration with various agencies and international partners have significantly disrupted drug trafficking networks and prevented dangerous narcotics from reaching American communities.
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