International Teamwork Smashes Narco-Trafficking Rings in the Caribbean
The high seas just got a little cleaner, thanks to a massive joint operation that culminated Wednesday with the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Northland offloading a staggering $20.1 million worth of illicit drugs at Coast Guard Base Miami Beach.
The impressive haul included approximately 2,220 pounds of cocaine and 3,320 pounds of marijuana, destined for communities across the nation.
This significant victory against transnational criminal organizations was the result of four daring interdictions in the Caribbean Sea.
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The combined efforts of international partners, including the Royal Canadian Navy ship HMCS William Hall and the Royal Netherlands Navy ship HNLMS Friesland, were instrumental in the seizures. These foreign vessels worked hand-in-hand with embarked U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement detachments, proving that when it comes to combating drug trafficking, borders are no barrier.
“Stopping harmful and illicit narcotics from reaching our shores and entering our communities is a team effort,” stated Cmdr. Brian Gismervik, commanding officer of the Coast Guard Cutter Northland. “In the dynamic maritime environment, it takes the combined efforts of our joint force DoD, DHS, and international partners to combat transnational criminal organizations.”
The success of these operations highlights the intricate dance of international and interagency coordination. Key players in this takedown included not only the HMCS William Hall and HNLMS Friesland, but also the U.S. Navy ship USS Cole, U.S. Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Teams from both the South and Pacific regions, the Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron Jacksonville, and the Seventh Coast Guard District staff.
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The process of detecting and interdicting drug traffickers on the high seas is a testament to sophisticated intelligence and swift action. Joint Interagency Task Force-South, based in Key West, plays a crucial role in the initial detection and monitoring.
Once an interdiction becomes imminent, the U.S. Coast Guard takes the helm, leading the interdiction and apprehension phases under the authority of the Seventh Coast Guard District, headquartered right here in Miami.
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