Massive Drug Bust: U.S. Coast Guard Seizes Over $500 Million Worth of Narcotics in South Florida

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In a significant win against international drug trafficking, the United States Coast Guard offloaded more than 48,000 pounds of illegal narcotics valued at $509 million at Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, on Wednesday, in what has been described as one of the most impactful seizures of the year.

The operation, described as a “prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven” strategy, was carried out using drones, surveillance aircraft, and naval vessels, targeting maritime drug corridors off the coasts of Peru, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands. The mission directly dealt a blow to two of the world’s most dangerous drug cartels—Jalisco New Generation and the Sinaloa cartel—both of which have now been designated as foreign terrorist organizations.

Present at the offload were Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel, who praised the coordinated efforts that made the bust possible.

 “What they did saved countless American lives,” said Bondi. “This is a model of how intelligence and justice can shut down criminal empires.”

Patel added, “We are going to dismantle the ‘next man up’ theory that has kept these Mexican cartels alive for generations. Their free reign is over.”

This latest seizure marks the third drug offload in South Florida in 2025. Just last month, a similar effort netted 46,000 pounds of narcotics worth over $517 million, resulting in 34 arrests. In March, another 12,000 pounds of cocaine, valued at $141 million, were seized using thermal imaging, planes, and speedboats.

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Experts say the successful seizures highlight the evolving sophistication in law enforcement tactics and the importance of interagency and international cooperation in tackling transnational crimes.

As cartels evolve, so do the tactics used to intercept them—showing that global security efforts, when properly funded and executed, can save lives and protect communities.

For more insightful updates on global security efforts, stay tuned to Newspot Nigeria—your trusted source for verified and bold journalism.

– NewsMax

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