In a large-scale maritime crackdown known as Operation Pacific Viper, U.S. Coast Guard and Navy forces have intercepted more than 75,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific Ocean since the operation began in early August. The seizures were made during more than 20 separate interdictions.
Nearly 60 suspected drug smugglers and narco-terrorism suspects have also been apprehended during the mission, which aims to disrupt trafficking routes off the coast of South America.
One significant seizure came when the Coast Guard cutter Seneca intercepted 5,500 pounds of cocaine from a low-profile vessel northeast of the Galápagos Islands.
Officials said the mission involves multiple service branches and international partners. The operation is part of a wider effort to dismantle cartels, target drug corridors, and stop the flow of illicit narcotics into the United States.