Crime
Coast Guard Seizes Over $54 Million Worth Of Cocaine From Smuggling Vessel, 5 Detained
The U.S. Coast Guard said it recently interdicted a suspected drug smuggling vessel in the Caribbean and found more than $54 million worth of cocaine on board.
The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Richard Dixon on Friday, Aug. 21, interdicted a suspected drug smuggling vessel approximately 50 miles south of Puerto Rico. On board, they found 7,250 pounds of cocaine valued at approximately $54.5 million.
Five people on board the vessel were detained pending further investigation. The Coast Guard said their vessel was destroyed as it posed a hazard to navigation.
“An outstanding team effort thanks to seamless coordination with Coast Guard and CBP air assets, cutter Richard Dixon was in the right place at the right time to stop a major shipment,” said Lt. Cmdr. Michael D. Torgesen, Coast Guard Cutter Richard Dixon commanding officer. “I’m constantly humbled by my crew’s dedication and am proud to serve alongside them as we strike a direct blow against transnational smuggling operations and protect the nation’s maritime borders in the Caribbean.”
