Drug smuggling

U.S. Coast Guard Intercepts Highlight Growing Drug Submarine Epidemic

In November, the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Thetis intercepted two semi-submersibles in the Eastern Pacific, a favorite haunt of so-called narco-subs. They were carrying cocaine northbound toward the United States. Each vessel was carrying just under two tons of the narcotic.

Although only reported now, the events took place a few days before another drug submarine was found in Galicia, Spain, providing proof for the first time of a transatlantic drug submarine route. It is unlikely to be the first to actually venture across the Atlantic, however. The European vessel was not an unrelated phenomenon. Although it was discovered over 5,500 miles away, that semi-submersible had clear connections to some smuggling vessels found in the Pacific.

Even in international waters crewing an unregistered semi-submersible is illegal. This may actually increase the safety of the crews. Previously crews attempted to scuttle the boat because without the cocaine no crime could be proven. But now merely being on the low profile boat is illegal, so there is less incentive to abandon ship. Staying aboard and awaiting capture reduces the risk of drowning.