The U.S. Coast Guard has released a video showcasing the destruction of a vessel carrying illicit drugs to the United States, as part of ongoing efforts under Operation Pacific Viper. The operation, launched in August, has resulted in the seizure of over 40,000 pounds of cocaine and the apprehension of at least 36 suspected drug smugglers.
According to a September 4 press release, the Coast Guard intercepts approximately 1,600 pounds of drugs daily in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. The agency has conducted 14 interdictions since August 8, targeting transnational criminal organizations involved in trafficking narcotics from South America. Rear Adm. Douglas Schofield, acting deputy commandant for operations, emphasized the Coast Guard’s role as a leader in maritime counter-drug efforts, stating the service is “accelerating counter-drug operations” to disrupt drug networks.
Operation Pacific Viper involves coordination with international and interagency partners, including the deployment of cutters, aircraft, and tactical teams. Recent milestones include the offloading of 76,140 pounds of illicit drugs—primarily cocaine and marijuana—in Port Everglades, Florida. This marked the largest seizure in Coast Guard history, resulting from 19 interdictions in international waters.
The U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force-South monitors drug transit, with the Coast Guard assuming control during interdiction operations. As the lead federal agency for maritime drug enforcement, the Coast Guard operates under the Department of Homeland Security to protect national borders and disrupt transnational criminal activity.