After a high-impact patrol mission in the eastern Pacific, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter James has returned to Florida, bringing back a record-setting haul of illegal drugs—over 44,550 pounds of cocaine and 3,880 pounds of marijuana, valued at approximately $510 million. The narcotics were allegedly linked to several of Mexico’s most notorious drug trafficking organizations: the Gulf Cartel (CDG), the Sinaloa Cartel (CDS), and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
Attorney General Pamela Bondi highlighted the operation as a major win against cartel operations, noting the drug seizures represent a significant financial blow to the criminal enterprises.
“These cartels have lost more than a half-billion dollars in potential profits thanks to the coordinated efforts of U.S. law enforcement,” Bondi said. “This is justice in action, preventing these drugs from reaching American communities.”
A Multi-Agency Effort Across International Waters
The massive haul resulted from 11 successful interdictions of smuggling vessels operating in international waters near Ecuador, Peru, and Costa Rica. U.S. authorities arrested 34 suspected cartel operatives during the mission, who now face federal charges.
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The operation was powered by advanced surveillance and collaboration. Aerial support came from both a Coast Guard Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) and drones, with additional assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations. The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Mohawk also played a supporting role in the high-seas operations.
During one intense 72-hour window, the Cutter James intercepted seven separate smuggling vessels, confiscating 24,000 pounds of cocaine and detaining 15 cartel traffickers.
More Seizures Continue at Sea
The mission doesn’t end there. U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced that one of its P-3 surveillance aircraft recently assisted in the takedown of another smuggling vessel. That bust led to the seizure of 3,644 pounds of cocaine—worth an estimated $1.6 million—and the capture of seven more cartel-affiliated individuals.
“These missions are vital in disrupting the drug trade before it reaches our shores,” Bondi added. “Thanks to the bravery and skill of our Coast Guard and federal agents, countless lives will be spared from the devastating impacts of cartel narcotics.”
As federal forces maintain a strong presence in international waters, law enforcement vows to continue its aggressive stance against transnational drug trafficking.