A suspected drug smuggler is in custody after the U.S. Coast Guard Station Fort Lauderdale law enforcement boat crew seized 550 pounds of cocaine near Port Everglades.
The seizure occurred on Saturday when the Coast Guard crew took control of the 36-foot vessel, “Bella Vita,” and discovered a large quantity of cocaine, estimated to be worth $6.3 million.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the cocaine was found concealed within nine suitcases aboard the boat.
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“Protecting our maritime border from illicit drug trafficking and transnational criminal organizations remains one of our highest priorities,” said Lt. Daniel Sunday, Coast Guard Sector Miami’s deputy enforcement chief. “The Coast Guard and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners remain vigilant in our shared efforts to keep our maritime borders safe by preventing illicit narcotics from reaching our communities.”
Following the seizure, the suspect was transferred to Coast Guard Investigative Service agents ashore for federal prosecution.
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