Dominican Republic authorities announced Saturday one of the largest maritime drug seizures in the nation’s history, conducted south of Baní in collaboration with the United States. The cargo, estimated to potentially exceed two tons, was being transported on a speedboat originating from the La Guajira region of Colombia.
Following the interdiction, the drugs were transferred to the Caldera military base in Baní, where they remain under the custody of security agencies for analysis and legal proceedings. Six Dominican nationals were arrested during the operation.
Authorities were reportedly counting and cataloging the seized drugs as of Saturday night to determine the precise weight of the cocaine and provide further details about the anti-narcotics operation. Investigations indicate the vessel departed from La Guajira, Colombia.
The geography of La Guajira – extensive coastlines, limited state presence in large areas, and relative proximity to international shipping routes – has been exploited by criminal organizations to send shipments toward Central America and the Caribbean, ultimately destined for the North American market.
Officials state that the use of speedboats is a common tactic employed by drug traffickers: lightweight, high-powered vessels designed for rapid transit across the Caribbean to evade surveillance systems.
The successful interdiction was attributed to information sharing between agencies, particularly data provided by the United States to Dominican authorities, enabling them to locate the vessel before it reached Dominican territory.
Separately, authorities from the Public Ministry and the DNCD also reported pursuing three individuals, including two Haitian nationals, in connection with a large marijuana plantation dismantled in a mountainous area of Baní, Peravia province. The operation involved prosecutors, DNCD agents, intelligence agencies, and helicopters from the Dominican Air Force.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of vessel was used to transport the drugs?
The drugs were transported on a speedboat, described as a fast, lightweight, and powerful vessel.
Where did the intercepted vessel originate?
The vessel originated from the La Guajira region of Colombia.
How many people were arrested in connection with the drug seizure?
Six individuals, all of Dominican nationality, were arrested.
As investigations continue, it remains to be seen what further steps authorities may take to disrupt drug trafficking operations in the region.
