The U.S. Coast Guard has reported the seizure of over 50 tons of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific Ocean since the launch of Operation Pacific Viper in early August. This operation has resulted in an average seizure of nearly a ton of cocaine each day. As part of this initiative, 86 individuals suspected of drug trafficking have been arrested following 34 interdictions during the same period.
Officials stated that Operation Pacific Viper aims to enhance counter-drug operations in the Eastern Pacific, where there is a significant flow of illicit narcotics from Central and South America. In the past two months, the Coast Guard has increased its resources in the region to effectively interdict, seize, and disrupt the transport of cocaine and other illegal drugs.
Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak, deputy commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area, praised the operation, saying, "The Coast Guard’s seizure of over 100,000 pounds of cocaine, in such a short timeframe, is a remarkable achievement." He emphasized the commitment of the Coast Guard to intensify counter-narcotics efforts, stating, "When we say the Coast Guard is accelerating counter-narcotics operations, we mean it."
Novak highlighted the collaborative efforts with partners and allies to patrol drug smuggling routes in the Eastern Pacific and dismantle narco-terrorist networks. He noted, "As we mark our interdiction of 100,000 pounds, we are already working towards the next milestone."
The Coast Guard serves as the primary federal agency for maritime drug interdiction in the United States. With over 76,000 personnel, it operates a versatile fleet that includes more than 220 cutters, 185 fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, and 1,300 boats. The agency also has a dedicated cyber command to safeguard critical maritime infrastructure.