U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bear’s crew offloaded approximately 7,720 pounds of cocaine and 4,000 pounds of marijuana worth more than $63 million at Port Everglades, Friday.
The seized contraband was the result of three interdictions in international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
On June 11, Bear’s crew detected a go-fast vessel, and the embarked Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron aircrew employed airborne use-of-force tactics. Bear’s boarding team interdicted and boarded the vessel, seizing approximately 4,000 pounds of marijuana.
On June 12, Bear’s crew detected two go-fast vessels, and the embarked HITRON aircrew employed airborne use-of-force tactics to stop both vessels. Bear’s boarding teams interdicted and boarded the vessels, seizing approximately 7,660 pounds of cocaine.
On June 13, Bear’s crew recovered a bale in the Eastern Pacific Ocean containing approximately 60 pounds of cocaine.
“The success of these interdictions reflects the strength of our partnerships and the persistence of our crews,” said Cmdr. Jorell Webb, commanding officer of Coast Guard Cutter 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.”
The following assets and crews were involved in the interdiction operations:
- USCGC Bear
- Coast Guard Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron
- Joint Interagency Task Force South
- Coast Guard Southwest District watchstanders
During the interdictions, HITRON employed an MH-65E Dolphin helicopter featuring its new Blackfin design, which recognizes the squadron’s most successful fiscal year to date after seizing three times its annual average amount of cocaine. The design reflects the precision airborne use-of-force tactics and sustained offshore interdiction operations that define HITRON’s mission while highlighting the squadron’s specialized training and capabilities.