U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi recently revealed that approximately $510 million worth of illegal drugs was seized from vessels en route to the United States. This operation showcases the government’s commitment to dismantling sophisticated drug cartel networks.
During her visit to Florida, Bondi highlighted the haul of cocaine and marijuana intercepted by U.S. Coast Guard crews, emphasizing the administration’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking that exacerbates America’s addiction problems. Standing in front of a Coast Guard vessel piled high with seized drugs, Bondi reinforced the Trump administration’s focus on fighting violent crime, illegal immigration, and drug cartels.
The Coast Guard utilized ships, aircraft, and drones to intercept traffickers off the coasts of Peru, Ecuador, and the Galapagos Islands. This operation has led to sealed indictments against 11 individuals linked to two major cartels: the Jalisco New Generation and Sinaloa cartels. Bondi described these seizures as a significant setback for these organizations.
“What they did saved countless American lives,” Bondi stated, commending the Coast Guard crews for their efforts. “This cocaine could have made its way across our country and potentially affected people globally.”
The Sinaloa cartel, known as Mexico’s oldest crime organization involved in drug, weapon, and human trafficking, along with the Jalisco New Generation cartel, were designated as “foreign terrorist organizations” by the Trump administration earlier this year. This classification serves to intensify the pressure on these cartels and those who assist them.
FBI Director Kash Patel, who accompanied Bondi during her visit, reaffirmed the administration’s designation. “This administration has labeled them foreign terrorist organizations because that’s what they are,” he said, underlining the urgency of addressing the threats posed by these criminal groups.
