Photo: Stocktrek Images / Stocktrek Images / Getty Images
Port Everglades, FL - The U.S. Coast Guard offloaded nearly five tons of cocaine worth more than $73 million at Port Everglades on Tuesday.
The massive drug seizure was made by the crew of the Cutter Tahoma, who brought in a total of 9,970 pounds of the drug.
The cocaine was intercepted during a high-stakes operation on June 24th, approximately 120 miles northwest of Ecuador.
The U.S. Coast Guard said the successful operation was part of their ongoing efforts to curb illegal drug trafficking.
Officials have not publicly identified any suspects linked to the cocaine shipment, as investigations into its origin and intended destination continue.
Nolan Cuevas, the commanding officer of the Cutter Tahoma, praised the professionalism and teamwork of his crew during the operation.
He highlighted the critical support from logistics and maintenance teams that allowed the operation to run smoothly.
“Their tireless efforts ensured we had the resources to operate efficiently,” said Cuevas. “Our collective actions reaffirm the Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding our nation’s borders and citizens.”
This major seizure follows the Coast Guard’s ongoing mission to combat international drug smuggling.
The cocaine will be processed as evidence, and efforts to identify the suspects and their networks remain underway.