Federal agents seize $33 million cocaine in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Federal agents in Puerto Rico conducted a significant drug bust on a boat attempting to smuggle cocaine into Vieques, a small island known for its tourism. The operation took place in the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in the seizure of over 3,600 pounds of cocaine, valued at approximately $33 million. The individuals aboard the vessel abandoned the boat and fled the scene, evading capture. This incident follows a recent drug seizure near Rincon, where authorities confiscated more than 580 pounds of cocaine worth over $5 million. Two U.S. citizens were arrested during that operation, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. Puerto Rico has historically been a strategic transit point for drug smuggling operations targeting the U.S. mainland and Europe. The island's geographical location makes it an attractive route for traffickers, leading to frequent law enforcement actions aimed at disrupting these illegal activities. The recent seizures underscore the persistent challenges faced by federal and local authorities in curbing drug trafficking. As the situation evolves, continued vigilance and cooperation between agencies will be crucial in addressing the drug trade and its associated impacts on communities.