Operation Pacific Viper: US Military and Coast Guard Crack Down on Drug Trafficking in the Caribbean
The Department of Homeland Security recently released footage of US military operations in the Caribbean, where the US Coast Guard intercepted a drug boat heading towards US shores. The operation, known as Operation Pacific Viper, has resulted in the seizure of over 40,000 pounds of cocaine and the apprehension of 36 smugglers in the Eastern Pacific since August 8. The Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton offloaded a record-breaking 76,140 pounds of illicit drugs, including cocaine and marijuana, in Port Everglades, Florida, following 19 interdictions in international waters.
The USCG Cutter Stone crew conducted three successful interdictions in a single night, seizing nearly 13,000 pounds of cocaine and apprehending seven smugglers. President Trump hinted at potential attacks on cartels within Venezuela, following a recent successful strike on a Venezuelan drug-smuggling boat. The President's warning to drug traffickers was clear, emphasizing the US's commitment to combatting drug smuggling into the country.
In response to the escalating drug trafficking threat, thousands of Marines, Sailors, and Coast Guardsmen have been deployed to the Caribbean waters as part of a counter-cartel mission. The joint efforts of the US military and Coast Guard have already yielded significant results in intercepting drug shipments and apprehending smugglers. The commitment to combating drug trafficking remains a top priority for the US government.