The Dominican Republic has confirmed that the boat targeted in a recent U.S. airstrike was transporting around 1,000 kilograms of suspected cocaine. That’s over 2,200 pounds, which is quite a lot—more than a ton, really. Following this attack, the Dominican National Drug Control Agency and its navy have seized numerous drug packages. They sent these packages for analysis to the National Institute of Forensic Science (INACIF) to identify the specific types and weights involved.
Recently, President Trump had ordered a “fatal movement attack” aimed at drug trafficking vessels in international waters, resulting in the deaths of three individuals.
According to a statement from Dominican authorities, they coordinated closely with the U.S. South Command (Southcom) and the Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATF-SOUTH), which helped spot a high-speed boat making its way towards Dominican shores. Intelligence suggested this boat intended to use the Dominican Republic as a base for drug trafficking.
This operation marks a significant first in collaborative efforts between the Dominican Republic and the U.S. against narcotrafficking in the Caribbean.
In another development, President Trump has initiated more military strikes against Venezuelan narcotraffickers operating in international waters. In a recent statement, he reiterated a strong stance, saying, “If you’re transporting drugs that can kill Americans, we’re hunting you!”
He seemed to respond cautiously when asked about potential actions regarding Venezuela, simply stating, “see what happens.”
In addressing cocaine, a U.S. government factsheet characterized it as a potent stimulant that often leads to severe euphoria and has a strong potential for addiction. It noted that users can quickly develop a tolerance, requiring them to increase their doses.
