In a significant victory against international drug trafficking, Interpol has announced the seizure of a “narco sub” containing $1.6 billion worth of illegal drugs and chemicals. The homemade semi-submersible vessel was discovered in the South American jungle following an intensive investigation.
Operation “Lionfish Hurricane”
This major bust was part of a coordinated global crackdown known as “Lionfish Hurricane,” aimed at dismantling narcotics trafficking networks across South America, Africa, and Europe. The homemade submersible, built by drug trafficking gangs, was intercepted in Guyana, and investigators confirmed it was carrying up to 3 tons of cocaine.
Transcontinental drug trafficking route
Authorities believe the “narco sub” was used to transport narcotics through South American riverways before attempting to cross the Atlantic Ocean and reach Western Europe. These semi-submersible vessels, often referred to as “narco submarines,” are notorious tools used by South American drug cartels to smuggle vast quantities of cocaine to Europe and the United States.
Massive haul of drugs and chemicals
Alongside the semi-submersible, authorities seized 615 tons of illegal drugs and 505 tons of precursor chemicals, valued at $1.6 billion. These precursor chemicals can be used to manufacture both drugs and explosives, highlighting the growing threat posed by transnational organized crime groups. “The massive seizure of chemicals highlights the significant growth of transnational organized crime groups, and their ability to make weapons,” Interpol stated.
Arrests and additional seizures
The operation also resulted in the arrest of 206 individuals and the seizure of 65 stolen cars, 30,000 commercial-grade detonators diverted from military or commercial mining, and 280 firearms and grenades.
Furthermore, Interpol confiscated more than 56 tons of cocaine and 52 tons of other drugs, including marijuana, ketamine, and tramadol. Funded by the British Home Office, the two-month operation, conducted between April and May this year, involved 31 countries and several international organizations. The extensive collaboration underscores the global scale of the drug trafficking problem and the necessity for international cooperation in combating it.
The scale of the problem
“The value of drugs seized in this two-month operation is higher than the GDP of some countries, which clearly shows the scale of the problem facing law enforcement,” stated Interpol Secretary General Jürgen Stock.
He emphasized the ongoing expansion of organized crime networks and the severe consequences of their activities, calling for unified efforts to address this national security threat. “We will, and must, unite our efforts to combat this national security threat which threatens every country,” Stock declared. The successful operation “Lionfish Hurricane” represents a significant step forward in the global fight against drug trafficking, demonstrating the effectiveness of international cooperation in addressing this pervasive issue.