The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba returned to Port Everglades, Florida, on Friday with a major haul – over 3,400 pounds of cocaine and 4,410 pounds of marijuana, valued at approximately $50 million.
These drugs were seized during interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, conducted in collaboration with a Coast Guard Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron aircrew and a Law Enforcement Detachment team.
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The Escanaba crew, along with interagency and international partners, worked to disrupt illicit drug trafficking routes off the coast of South America.
Seven suspected smugglers were apprehended during the interdictions and are now in federal custody facing prosecution.
The complex process of detecting and interdicting drug traffickers involves coordination between multiple agencies and nations. Joint Interagency Task Force-South plays a key role in monitoring drug transit, while the U.S. Coast Guard takes charge during interdiction and apprehension.
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“The Coast Guard’s presence in the Eastern Pacific is vital to our mission of disrupting the flow of illicit narcotics and safeguarding our nation’s security. The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba, through their unwavering professionalism and dedication, has once again demonstrated the critical role our people play in these complex operations,” said Vice Adm. Nathan Moore, commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area. “By maintaining a strong presence in this region, we continue to protect our communities and uphold the highest standards of service. Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba’s success is a direct reflection of our commitment to mission excellence and the core values that guide us.”
The Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba, a 270-foot medium endurance cutter, is homeported in Portsmouth, Virginia. Its crew of 100, along with the specialized aircrews and law enforcement teams, continue to make a significant impact in the fight against organized crime and drug trafficking.
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