Following their return to Port Everglades, Florida, on Friday, the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba made a significant haul: 4,410 pounds of marijuana and over 3,400 pounds of cocaine, worth at an estimated $50 million.
These drugs were found during interdiction operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, which were carried out in conjunction with a Law Enforcement Detachment team and an aircrew from the Coast Guard Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron.
The Escanaba crew attempted to obstruct illegal drug trafficking routes off the coast of South America in collaboration with interagency and foreign partners. During the interdictions, seven suspected smugglers were captured; they are currently being held in federal custody and may face legal action.
Multiple agencies and governments must coordinate in the difficult task of identifying and apprehending drug traffickers. The U.S. Coast Guard is in charge of interdiction and apprehension, while Joint Interagency Task Force-South is crucial in monitoring drug transit.
“The Coast Guard’s presence in the Eastern Pacific is vital to our mission of disrupting the flow of illicit narcotics and safeguarding our nation’s security. The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba, through their unwavering professionalism and dedication, has once again demonstrated the critical role our people play in these complex operations,” Vice Adm. Nathan Moore, commander, Coast Guard Atlantic Area stated. “By maintaining a strong presence in this region, we continue to protect our communities and uphold the highest standards of service. Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba’s success is a direct reflection of our commitment to mission excellence and the core values that guide us.”
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Portsmouth, Virginia, is homeport to the 270-foot medium endurance Coast Guard cutter Escanaba. Along with the specialist aircrews and law enforcement teams, its hundred-person crew continues to play a major role in the battle against drug trafficking and organized crime.
