A vessel engaged in drug smuggling for a cartel was destroyed following its seizure at sea by the crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James. (Photo credit: U.S. Coast Guard)
The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James has recently returned to Florida after a patrol that resulted in the confiscation of over 44,550 pounds of cocaine and 3,880 pounds of marijuana, both linked to Mexican cartels, amounting to an estimated value of $510 million. U.S. Attorney General Pam Biondi stated that these seizures translate into significant financial losses exceeding half a billion dollars for the Gulf Cartel (CDG), Sinaloa Cartel (CDS), and Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
The successful operation involved 11 separate interceptions of cartel smuggling vessels, leading to the apprehension of 34 drug traffickers in the Pacific Ocean near Ecuador, Peru, and Costa Rica, who now face federal charges.
During this mission, the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter James utilized aerial support from a drone, a helicopter aircrew from the Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON), and additional assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations. The US Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk also provided support during the patrol.
In one notable 72-hour timeframe, the crew intercepted seven distinct smuggling boats, resulting in the confiscation of 24,000 pounds of cocaine and the arrest of 15 smugglers associated with Mexican cartels.
“We have dealt a significant blow to narco-terrorism organizations, ensuring that those attempting to smuggle drugs into our country will face federal prosecution,” stated Captain Thomas Rodzewicz, Commanding Officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James. “This effort not only disrupts the profits that fuel the fentanyl trade but also protects American communities and families from dangerous substances.”
A boarding team from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James approaches a narcotics smuggling vessel during a recent operation in the Pacific Ocean. (Photo credit: U.S. Coast Guard)
“This operation exemplifies the collaboration between the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners in combating crime and preventing drugs from entering the United States,” remarked Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Thanks to the exceptional efforts of the Coast Guard and FBI, these drugs will contribute to locking up criminals rather than destroying lives.”
