Coast Guard Offloads $335 Million in Cocaine

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro offloaded more than 29,000 pounds of cocaine worth approximately $335.8 million in San Diego, following successful interceptions of 11 drug-smuggling vessels in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. These operations took place off the coasts of Mexico and Central and South America during September and October, involving multiple U.S. agencies such as the Departments of Defense, Justice, and Homeland Security. Captain James O'Mara, commanding officer of the Munro, praised his crew's teamwork and persistence, emphasizing the importance of international and interagency cooperation. The interdictions were part of efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces to dismantle high-level criminal organizations. The operations highlight the challenging and vast operational environment of the Eastern Pacific, essential to maintaining security and combating transnational organized crime. Rear Adm. Joseph Buzzella underscored the vital role of partnerships in these missions.