BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — U.S. Coast Guard and interagency crews seized more than 4,000 pounds of cocaine in the Caribbean Sea, according to a press release. The drugs — valued at $54 million — were offloaded in Port Everglades on Monday.
Crews were able to get a hold of the narcotics in three separate interdictions. Officials said 11 suspects were apprehended and will face prosecution in federal court.
“I am extremely proud of our crew's tenacity and professionalism, coupled with outstanding coordination with Coast Guard aircrews, during this complex counter-drug mission,” said Lt. Matthew Carmine, Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier commanding officer. “Their steadfast efforts, along with those of foreign allies and partner agencies, continue to prove vital to countering drug trafficking organizations and safeguarding the people of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”
The operation involved the Royal Navy ship HMS Trent, U.S, Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team Pacific, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier and Cutter Diligence, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations and Joint Interagency Task Force South, the release stated.
