U.S. Coast Guard crews offloaded nearly $55 million worth of cocaine and marijuana in Florida on Monday after a 60-day anti-drug patrol.
The crew of Cutter Resolute (WMEC 620), while on patrol in support of the Southern Interagency Task Force, intercepted two suspected drug-trafficking operations and recovered 6,565 pounds of marijuana and approximately 3,700 pounds of cocaine. It was prevented from being brought into the United States. Crews also detained six drug trafficking suspects.
The drugs were seized in international waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the Coast Guard said.
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U.S. Coast Guard crews offloaded approximately $55 million worth of cocaine and marijuana in St. Petersburg, Florida, on Monday. (Coast Guard)
“The pride and dedication of the Resolute crew was evident throughout the entire patrol,” said Cmdr. Resolute Commander Matthew Kolodica said in a news release. “Despite being deployed during the holiday season, the crew responded with professionalism.”
“As a result of their combined efforts, the patrol was highly successful, stopping $55 million worth of drugs from reaching their destination,” he continued. “All resolute sailors and their loved ones should be proud. They are a living example of the Coast Guard’s motto, ‘Semper Paratus – Always Ready.'” It’s an honor to lead you. ”
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The drugs were seized in international waters in the eastern Pacific Ocean. (Coast Guard)
During the patrol, the crew met with Panama’s National Air and Naval Administration to discuss strategies to strengthen the U.S.-Panamanian partnership and combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, the Coast Guard said.
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Resolute is a 210-foot Reliance-class medium-endurance cutter based in St. Petersburg, Florida, according to the Coast Guard. The crew is 80 people.
The cutter’s primary missions include law enforcement, search and rescue, protection of marine living resources, homeland security and defense operations, international training and humanitarian operations throughout the Western Hemisphere.
