The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Dependable conducted three separate international and inter-agency counter narcotics operations that resulted in the seizure of approximately 325 kilograms of cocaine, 600 pounds of marijuana and apprehension of 15 suspected drug smugglers within the past week.
The Coast Guard cutther Dependable seized cocaine in three cases within one week Image: U.S. Coast Guard / PO3 Eric Woodall
The drugs seized represent a total wholesale value of over $10.1 million.
Working jointly with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, other U.S. law enforcement officials, Royal Bahamian Defense Force, Royal Bahamian Police Force and a Bahamian Drug Enforcement Unit, Dependable’s law enforcement teams boarded vessels transporting illicit cargo; likely bound for the United States.
“This is a great example of how the Coast Guard collaborates across multiple agencies to counter the efforts of drug trafficking organizations,” said Lt. Ken Franklin, operations officer for the Dependable. “This past week’s success was the culmination of ongoing cooperative efforts across international borders and organizational boundaries.”
The Dependable is a 210-foot medium endurance cutter with 76 crewmembers that conducts maritime safety, security and stewardship operations in the waters stretching from the U.S. and Canadian maritime border off New England, to the Florida Straits and greater Caribbean Sea.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Dependable Image: USCG / PO3 Eric Woodall
Source: USCG