Massive Drug Busts: Coast Guard Seizes Tonnes of Narcotics in Eastern Pacific and San Diego

The US Coast Guard Cutter Waesche offloaded approximately 18,219 pounds of cocaine, worth over $239 million, seized from drug transit zones in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Thirteen individuals have been arrested and are in US custody, with charges pending. The drugs were seized from six different vessels, including a self-propelled semi-submersible. The Coast Guard's successful interception of the semi-submersible is significant, as it is the first such seizure in over four years. The maritime counter-drug mission aims to combat transnational criminal organizations that traffic cocaine, which fuels violence, corruption, and instability in Central and South America. The drugs will be analyzed, stored as evidence, and eventually destroyed.