Last Friday 22nd March, a specialized U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) law enforcement unit embarked the Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser USS LEYTE GULF CG 55, successfully intercepted and seized a semi-submersible vessel carrying thousands of pounds of cocaine in the U.S. Southern Command’s operational area.
Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) launched a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) to intercept the vessel, leading to the detention of the individuals aboard and the seizure of approximately 2,370 kilograms of cocaine.
The operation follows a series of successful drug busts for the crew of the cruiser . In February, while patrolling the Caribbean Sea, the ship intercepted three different vessels. These operations involved both U.S. and partner nation forces and led to the recovery of a total of 1,720 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated $43.05 million.
Timeline image – Courtesy of USCG
