Groningen has intercepted another drug transport in the Caribbean June 26. The patrol ship stopped a fast drug boat with 8 passengers. They had 228 kilos of cocaine with them.
The patrol aircraft Dash-8 of the Caribbean Coast Guard spotted the drug boat in the Caribbean Sea during the night of 25 to 26 June. Groningen was already in the area at that time. The ship immediately went into action.
After a pursuit, the suspects and the seized cargo of cocaine were turned over to the U.S. Coast Guard.
During the operation,Groningen was assisted by the American Coast Guard helicopter stationed on board and 2 fast FRISC interceptors. These boats were carrying the Dutch Fleet Marine Squadron and personnel from the American Coast Guard.
The new drug bust is the sixth since early April. At that time, Groningen took over the duties as station ship in the Caribbean from Holland. The patrol ship is not only used for counter-drug operations. Groningen also supports the Caribbean Coastguard in humanitarian operations.