USCG Seizes Record 80,000 Pounds of Cocaine in Pacific Viper Operation
U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has intercepted a massive haul of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific region, seizing over 80,000 pounds since early August. The operation, named Pacific Power, has resulted in the offloading of over 12,750 pounds, valued at approximately $94.5 million.
Operation Pacific Power involves multiple USCG cutters, aircraft, and tactical teams working alongside Joint Interagency Task Force-South and Coast Guard crews from various districts. The U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, and partner nations' maritime forces collaborate to target cocaine and other illegal drugs in the region, with the USCG primarily leading interdiction and seizure operations.
The operation has been successful, with 29 suspected smugglers arrested and transferred to federal custody. The USCG's extensive patrol area covers over 95,000 miles of shoreline, 25,000 miles of navigable rivers, and 4.5 million square miles of U.S. exclusive economic zone, operating a fleet of over 250 cutters, 200 aircraft, and 1,600 boats. Capt. Lee Jones, commander of Coast Guard Cutter Seneca, praised the teamwork and adaptability of his crew and partners during the patrol.
The surge in USCG resources, including record funding under the Trump administration, has strengthened border security. Operation Pacific Power, involving interagency partners intercepting illicit narcotics in international waters, has seen the USCG play an enhanced role in interdiction, seizure, and disruption of transshipments of cocaine and other illicit drugs.
