> Posted by Mare | Maritime Security & Law Enforcement

Coast Guard’s Ongoing Fight Against International Drug Cartels

On April 9, 2025, the U.S. Coast Guard seized over 44,550 pounds of cocaine and 3,880 pounds of marijuana at Port Everglades, Florida.
The drugs were intercepted by the Coast Guard Cutter James during an operation in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, with an estimated street value of nearly $510 million.

This seizure represents one of the largest drug busts in recent U.S. Coast Guard history, underscoring the agency’s critical role in disrupting international drug trafficking operations.

How the Operation Unfolded

The drugs were intercepted as part of the Coast Guard’s ongoing efforts to curb drug smuggling from Latin American cartels into the U.S.
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and Sinaloa Cartel were identified as key players behind the shipment. These organizations were labeled foreign terrorist organizations by the U.S. government in early 2025.

This latest bust led to sealed indictments against 11 individuals, with the operation being hailed as a significant financial blow to these criminal organizations

Recent Coast Guard Drug Seizures

March 2025: The Cutter Stone offloaded $517.5 million worth of illicit drugs intercepted in the Eastern Pacific.

February 2022: The Cutter James also seized over $1.06 billion in narcotics, marking a historic interception in drug trafficking.

These operations highlight the Coast Guard’s vital role in maritime law enforcement and its continued efforts to reduce drug-related violence and trafficking from Mexico and Central America.

Mare’s View

“This operation is a stark reminder of the critical importance of maritime security in the fight against organized crime.”

The U.S. Coast Guard remains a cornerstone in disrupting global drug trade networks, and the impact of these seizures goes far beyond just the financial loss to the cartels—it prevents the trafficking of dangerous substances into U.S. communities.