U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized about 214 pounds (97 kilograms) of cocaine hidden beneath a cargo vessel arriving in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Feb. 26. The estimated value of the seized narcotics is $1.7 million.
The cocaine was found inside a parasitic device attached to the hull of the M/V MEDSTAR, which had arrived from Rio Haina, Dominican Republic. Officers discovered the drugs during a routine boarding by using underwater drone technology to inspect the vessel’s hull.
“This seizure demonstrates the dedication and skill of our officers in utilizing advanced technology to protect our borders,” said Roberto Vaquero, director of field operations in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Our continued collaboration with local and federal partners is crucial in disrupting the flow of illicit narcotics and safeguarding our communities.”
The San Juan Municipal Police Dive Unit helped recover the device from the ship, while Homeland Security Investigations supported the operation. The seized cocaine was transported for further examination and secured according to established procedures.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing.
