International Operation seizes Nearly 8 Tons of Cocaine, Fuels Tensions Between Petro and Trump
A multinational operation led by the Joint International Task force for Counter Narcotics (JIATFS) and involving authorities from Malta, Sweden, Germany, France, Portugal, and the NCA Agency with Naval Intelligence RINCA, has resulted in the seizure of 7,887 kg of cocaine hydrochloride, along with significant quantities of fuel, weapons, vehicles, and cash. The operation, conducted in the jurisdictional waters of spain, Germany, Portugal, and Sweden, targeted container ships and involved 18 raids and a maritime interdiction of a “go-fast” vessel.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro highlighted the operation’s success on his X account, detailing the seizure of 1,056 gallons of fuel, four long weapons, one short weapon, an anti-drone system, 15 high-end vehicles, and 150,000 euros in cash. Thirty-eight individuals of unkown nationality were also apprehended. This display of success comes amidst ongoing criticism from Petro regarding U.S. anti-drug operations in the Caribbean Sea, which he alleges target vessels originating from Venezuela and linked to the “Cartel of the Suns” associated with the Nicolás Maduro regime. The timing also coincides with the U.S.Treasury Department’s inclusion of Petro, his son Nicolás Petro, Minister of the Interior Armando Benedetti, and Verónica Alcocer on the Clinton list.
The JIATFS operation comprised five container inspection events targeting MN container ships and two maritime control events. The collaborative effort underscores international commitment to disrupting transnational criminal networks, even as political friction simmers between Colombia and the United States. The seizures represent a significant blow to drug trafficking organizations operating in the region and highlight the complexities of international counter-narcotics efforts.
