Photo: RXrenesis8 / iStock / Getty Images
Port Everglades, FL - The U.S. Coast Guard offloaded over 49,000 pounds of cocaine at Port Everglades this week following a series of maritime interdictions in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Officials said the drugs, with an estimated street value of more than $362 million, were seized during 13 separate operations over several months.
The interdictions were carried out by the Coast Guard Cutter Stone, marking the largest cocaine seizure by a single cutter in Coast Guard history.
Vice Admiral Nathan Moore said the bust sends a strong message to international drug traffickers, adding that the Coast Guard will continue to target criminal networks attempting to move narcotics by sea.
Rear Admiral Jeffrey Randall said each successful interdiction saves lives and contributes to national security.
According to the Coast Guard, three of the interceptions occurred in a single night.
Crews used armed helicopters to stop vessels, detained suspected smugglers, and transferred both suspects and evidence to partner nations for prosecution.
Officials said the cocaine was believed to be destined for the United States.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard commended the Coast Guard members involved, calling the operation a significant achievement.
After offloading the drugs, the Cutter Stone is scheduled to return to its homeport in South Carolina as U.S. authorities continue broader efforts to disrupt transnational narcotics trafficking.