By The Smartencyclopedia Staff & Agencies

January 22, 2024

The Colombian Navy successfully intercepted a semi-submersible vessel in the Pacific Ocean on Sunday, marking the first seizure of a “narco sub” in 2024. The 50-foot-long vessel, believed to be en route to Central America, was carrying over 1,000 pounds of cocaine, featuring distinct scorpion logos on many of the drug packages, according to an official news release.

Video footage released by the navy showcased the seizure operation, with officers cutting open packages and conducting tests on the contents. Some parcels displayed a scorpion insignia, while others were labeled “Winnie” and “Carnal.”

https://twitter.com/FNP_ArmadaCol/status/1749044063662232018

Three individuals operating the semi-submersible were apprehended, and both suspects and the seized narcotics were transported to the Colombian port city of Buenaventura. Authorities have not provided additional information about the detained individuals.

Upon inspecting various compartments of the vessel, officials discovered dozens of packages. Subsequent tests revealed that the cargo amounted to approximately 1,753 pounds of cocaine, equivalent to around two million individual doses, with an estimated street value of $27 million.

“Narco subs” are favored by drug traffickers for their potential to evade detection by coast guards and other authorities. These vessels, which never fully submerge, have been intercepted both in Colombian waters and while en route to destinations such as the United States and Europe.

The Colombian Navy reported intercepting a total of 20 semi-submersibles in 2023, resulting in the seizure of 30 tons of cocaine and over five tons of marijuana. In May 2023, Colombian authorities intercepted the largest “narco sub” ever recorded in the country, carrying three tons of cocaine. Additionally, two months prior, a semi-submersible transporting a significant quantity of drugs and two deceased individuals was seized off the Colombian coast.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the navy reaffirmed its commitment to deploying all available logistical and operational capabilities to combat drug trafficking structures operating in the Colombian Pacific.