The crew aboard the Coast Guard cutter Bear offloaded approximately 7,720 pounds of cocaine and 4,000 pounds of marijuana, valued at more than $63 million, at Port Everglades, Florida, on June 26. The seized drugs resulted from three interdictions in the international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
On June 11, the crew detected a go-fast vessel and used airborne use-of-force tactics by Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron aircrew to board the vessel, seizing 4,000 pounds of marijuana. The next day, two go-fast vessels were detected, and the same team seized 7,660 pounds of cocaine. On June 13, a bale containing approximately 60 pounds of cocaine was recovered in the ocean.
“The success of these interdictions reflects the strength of our partnerships and the persistence of our crews,” said Coast Guard Cmdr. Jorell Webb, commanding officer of the Bear. “Our success required the integration of thoughtful training, carefully planned logistics and joint coordination. We are very proud of our efforts to prevent illicit networks from threatening our security.”
