U.S. Coast Guard seizes $74M in cocaine
The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Tahoma has made a significant drug seizure, offloading nearly 9,970 pounds of cocaine valued at $73.7 million at Port Everglades. This operation stemmed from an interdiction that occurred on June 24, when the crew intercepted a vessel suspected of drug trafficking approximately 120 miles northwest of Ecuador. The successful mission was part of a broader strategy involving multiple Coast Guard units and federal agencies working together to combat drug smuggling in the Eastern Pacific.
Cmdr. Nolan Cuevas, the commanding officer of Tahoma, expressed his admiration for the crew's determination and teamwork, stating that they executed the interdiction with remarkable precision and professionalism. The operation was supported by various teams, including the Pacific Area Tactical Law Enforcement Team, Maritime Safety & Security Team Houston, and the Joint Interagency Task Force-South (JIATF-South), which plays a vital role in monitoring aerial and maritime drug trafficking routes.
The interdiction process begins with identifying a target, after which the law enforcement phase is activated, allowing the Coast Guard to take control of the situation. This latest offload highlights the Coast Guard's ongoing commitment to disrupting transnational criminal networks and protecting U.S. borders.
Cmdr. Cuevas also acknowledged the essential role of logistics and support personnel, whose tireless efforts ensured that the crew had the necessary resources and maintenance support for the operation. The Cutter Tahoma, a 270-foot Famous-class medium endurance cutter, is homeported in Newport, Rhode Island, and operates under the U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Command.
This successful drug seizure not only demonstrates the effectiveness of the Coast Guard's operations but also reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding the nation and ensuring the safety of its citizens against the threats posed by drug trafficking. The ongoing efforts of the Coast Guard and its partners continue to play a crucial role in maintaining security and stability in the region.
