Video Captures 7.2 Tons of Cocaine Seized in High-Speed Ocean Pursuits

Mexican authorities have made a significant drug seizure, confiscating more than seven tons of suspected cocaine during two operations in the Pacific Ocean. The dramatic events were accompanied by high-speed sea chases, which were documented on video.

The first operation took place when a Panther helicopter, supplied by the Mexican Navy, captured footage of naval officers pursuing and intercepting three speedboats southwest of Manzanillo. The navy reported that this operation resulted in the recovery of 126 packages containing over 5.6 tons of suspected cocaine — the largest seizure recorded during the current administration. Alongside the drug haul, authorities arrested 15 suspects and seized over 1,000 liters of fuel.

In a subsequent operation, naval patrol boats and a helicopter successfully retrieved 32 floating packages, resulting in another 1.6 tons of suspected cocaine. A speedboat equipped with three outboard motors was also seized during this raid, which occurred near Lazaro Cardenas in Michoacan, a region notably impacted by cartel violence.

The Navy shared images on social media following these operations, showcasing dozens of wrapped packages displayed on a patrol vessel alongside officers and a helicopter. These visuals illustrated the magnitude of the confiscated drugs.

Officials revealed that a recent violent incident in Michoacan, which resulted in the deaths of seven community police members, is connected to ongoing turf wars among cartels competing for control over this coastal area. This region serves as a crucial landing site for cocaine shipments arriving by sea.

The cocaine seizures in the Pacific follow a notable incident from approximately a year ago. At that time, a semi-submersible vessel, often referred to as a narco sub, was intercepted off Mexico’s coast while carrying over 7,000 pounds of cocaine. During that operation, the navy released a dramatic video showing the boat being pursued by ships and a helicopter before being apprehended.

Colombia remains the source of over half of the world’s cocaine production, making these seizures part of a broader effort to combat drug trafficking that continues to plague both Mexico and neighboring countries.

The Mexican Navy’s recent successes highlight their active role in disrupting drug trafficking operations and maintaining security in regions affected by cartel violence.