Coast Guard seizes record-breaking illegal drugs and arrests smugglers
- Over 46,000 pounds of illegal drugs, including cocaine and marijuana, were offloaded at Port Everglades.
- Thirty four suspected smugglers were apprehended during the operation, which involved multiple interdictions.
- This seizure represents a significant milestone in efforts to combat drug trafficking and enhance community safety.
In a significant operation, the U.S. Coast Guard offloaded nearly 46,000 pounds of illegal drugs at Port Everglades, Florida. This event occurred on a Thursday morning, with the seizure including cocaine valued over half a billion dollars and 50 pounds of marijuana. The operation involved the deployment of specialized teams, including helicopter interdiction tactical squadron aircrews and a law enforcement detachment, resulting in the apprehension of 34 individuals suspected of smuggling. The drug confiscation was highlighted by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during a press conference at the port. Noem characterized this operation as an unprecedented milestone in the ongoing efforts to safeguard U.S. borders under the Trump administration. She stated that these interdictions aim to halt the influx of illicit drugs and trafficking activities that damage communities. The drugs were seized following 14 different interdictions in maritime operations off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America. This operation showcased the Coast Guard's persistent maritime security efforts. Secretary Noem emphasized the dedication and resilience of the Coast Guard in protecting communities from the repercussions of drug addiction and trafficking. With drug overdose deaths steadily increasing, particularly those involving cocaine, she commended the Coast Guard personnel for their daily vigilance in combating drug-related crimes. This incident followed earlier successes in drug seizures, reaffirming the commitment to shutting down drug-smuggling operations in the region. Acting Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, Admiral Kevin Lunday, reiterated the administration's firm stance against criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking. He conveyed a message of dominance over maritime territory, promising that the Coast Guard would locate and neutralize threats before they could infiltrate U.S. borders. Against the backdrop of rising drug-related fatalities across the nation, this operation stands as an essential effort to reclaim control and ensure public safety.