Maritime Smuggling Operation Disrupted in Puerto Rico

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Maritime Operations Officers (AMOs) collaborated with U.S. Border Patrol and ICE Homeland Security Investigations agents to address a maritime smuggling incident off Puerto Rico’s west coast. The operation resulted in the arrest of 64 illegal immigrants who were trying to reach the island.

This episode unfolded on Saturday, May 9, when AMO Maceda Marines identified a suspected smuggling operation involving a “Yola-type” vessel, which is a handmade wooden boat often used for fishing in the waters surrounding Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

During this maritime interdiction, AMO personnel boarded the boat and found 58 individuals from the Dominican Republic and six from Haiti aboard. The arrested migrants were later transferred to AMO and Puerto Rico Joint Force FURA vessels for further transport.

The CBP reported that the detainees were taken to the Mayagüez Port of Entry, where Border Patrol agents, with assistance from HSI and PRPD, processed them at the Ramey Border Patrol Station.

Christopher Hunter, who oversees Caribbean Airlines and Maritime Affairs, remarked on the operation, stating, “This effort highlights the dedication of our agents and partners to safeguarding our nation’s maritime borders and preserving lives.”

He further noted the significance of intercepting smuggling boats in perilous waters, adding, “Our swift and coordinated actions not only prevented dangerous crossings but also ensured that migrants received necessary care. Ongoing collaboration is crucial to shield Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands from illegal maritime threats.”

The CBP’s Caribbean Air and Marine Branch often thwarts drug smugglers using the same sea routes as human traffickers. In late April, a Caribbean AMO aircraft detected a target vessel about 35 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Rico. This vessel, a 30-foot Yola-type boat, resembled one involved in a previous human smuggling incident in May.

The boat was fitted with two outboard motors and appeared to be carrying several fuel containers and what officials suspected were drug contraband. AMO UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters maintained surveillance while AMO coastal interceptors Ponce and Fajardo moved in to engage the suspicious vessel.

Shortly after 12:58 a.m. on April 29, 2026, AMO Maritime Interdiction Agents intercepted the boat after firing warning shots to prompt the operator to halt. Once the vessel stopped and was boarded, officers arrested three Venezuelans and confiscated 1,418 pounds of cocaine. The individuals are currently facing federal charges in the District of Puerto Rico.