Coast Guard Intercepts Major Drug Smuggling Vessel Off Puerto Rico, Seizes 7,250 Pounds of Cocaine

The U.S. Coast Guard thwarted a major drug trafficking operation Saturday, August 22, when the cutter Richard Dixon intercepted a suspected smuggling vessel approximately 50 miles off Puerto Rico’s coast. Working alongside Customs and Border Protection air marine operations, federal agents discovered 7,250 pounds of cocaine aboard the boat, with a street value estimated at $54.5 million.

Five individuals were taken into custody following the interdiction. The Coast Guard subsequently destroyed the vessel after determining it presented a navigation hazard to other maritime traffic in the region.

Lieutenant Commander Michael D. Torgesen, addressing the successful operation, credited coordinated efforts between agency personnel for intercepting what he called a “major shipment” destined for distribution. “An outstanding team effort thanks to seamless coordination with Coast Guard and CBP air assets positioned the cutter Richard Dixon in the right place at the right time to strike a direct blow against transnational smuggling operations,” Torgesen stated.

Coast Guard Southeast District Commander Admiral Adam Chamie echoed the sentiment, noting that the seizure demonstrated the capability of prepared crews and interagency collaboration in maritime interdiction efforts. The Coast Guard has not yet announced formal charges against those detained.

The cocaine seizure comes as federal agencies continue escalating enforcement actions against drug trafficking networks. Earlier this week, more than 75,000 pounds of illicit narcotics valued at $473 million were offloaded at Port Everglades in Miami, Florida, on Monday.