A U.S. Coast Guard crew recently offloaded over 1,500 pounds of cocaine and 1,400 pounds of marijuana, valued at $18.5 million, following a 54-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea. During the operation, the Coast Guard collaborated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, as well as a Royal Netherlands Navy ship, to seize the illegal narcotics.
Jon Potterton, the commanding officer of the Cutter Vigilant, praised the crew for their outstanding performance. “This exceptional patrol demonstrated the versatility of our cutter and crew in conducting search and rescue operations, migrant interdiction, and counter-narcotic efforts,” said Potterton. “We are proud to partner with international and interagency forces to prevent drugs from reaching the streets while also assisting those in distress during a particularly busy hurricane season.”
In addition to the drug seizure, fifteen smugglers were arrested and are facing prosecution in federal court. This successful operation highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in combating illegal drug trafficking in the region. As the Coast Guard wraps up its mission, the crew is eager to return to their community and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Cutter Vigilant’s service.
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