WASHINGTON, Oct 26 – The U.S. navy intercepted a vessel in the Pacific Ocean carrying narcotics and allegedly linked to a Colombian rebel group, officials said Thursday, a move coinciding with former President Donald Trump labeling Colombian President Gustavo Petro an “illegal drug leader.”
The operation, conducted Oct. 23, involved a U.S. Navy ship disabling a self-propelled semi-submersible (SPSS) carrying approximately 3,800 pounds of cocaine, estimated to have a wholesale value of over $70 million, according to the U.S. Southern Command. No casualties were reported. The vessel was believed to be operated by a front for the Segunda Marquetalia, a dissident group of the former FARC rebel organization, according to two U.S. officials. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of drug trafficking and the involvement of armed groups in the production and movement of narcotics from South America.
The interception occurred as Trump intensified his criticism of Petro, accusing him of enabling the flow of drugs into the United States. Speaking at a rally in Iowa, Trump repeatedly referred to Petro as an “illegal drug leader” and threatened to take action against Colombia if the drug trade continued. “He’s a very perilous man,” Trump said of petro. “We’re going to have to do something about it.”
The Biden management has maintained a working relationship with Petro, despite concerns about Colombia’s increasing coca cultivation and drug production. U.S. officials have emphasized the need for continued cooperation with colombia to address the root causes of drug trafficking and promote choice development programs.
The use of SPSS vessels is a growing concern for law enforcement agencies, as they are difficult to detect and can carry large quantities of drugs. The U.S. Navy has increased its patrols in the Pacific Ocean to intercept these vessels and disrupt the flow of narcotics. The recent operation highlights the U.S.commitment to combating drug trafficking and working with international partners to address this global threat.
david Ljunggren of Reuters covers Canadian political, economic and general news as well as breaking news across North America. He was previously based in London and Moscow and is a winner of Reuters’ Treasury scoop of the year.
Raphael Satter is a Reuters reporter covering cybersecurity,surveillance,and disinformation.His work includes investigations into state-sponsored espionage, deepfake-driven propaganda, and mercenary hacking.
