In a scene ripped from a high-stakes thriller, a US Coastguard tactical team interdicted and deliberately sank a sophisticated Venezuelan 'narco-sub' in the Caribbean Sea, seizing an estimated two tonnes of cocaine with a street value in the millions.
The dramatic operation, which unfolded over 24 hours, involved personnel from the US cutter USS Margaret Chase Thatcher. After a lengthy surveillance track, the team moved in to board the suspicious vessel, finding its crew attempting to scuttle it themselves to destroy evidence.
A Deliberate Sinking to Protect Maritime Security
Rather than risk the semi-submersible becoming a hazard to navigation, the Coastguard made the decision to sink the vessel completely after offloading its illicit cargo. This decisive action prevents the abandoned craft from becoming a danger to other ships in busy international shipping lanes.
Footage of the operation, later released by the US Coastguard, shows armed team members fast-roping from a helicopter onto the craft's narrow deck as it ploughs through the waves.
Venezuela: A Known Narco-State
This bust highlights the ongoing role of Venezuela as a key launch point for narcotics destined for North America and Europe. The US government has long designated the regime of Nicolás Maduro as a narco-state, with senior officials allegedly involved in and profiting from the drug trade.
The successful interception was celebrated by former US military officer Pete Hegseth, who heralded it as a clear victory in the fight against cartels and a demonstration of American operational prowess.
This significant seizure deals a substantial financial blow to the criminal networks involved and underscores the critical work of maritime security forces in combating transnational drug trafficking.
