(NewsNation) — The U.S. Coast Guard, in coordination with the U.S. Navy, has seized over 860 pounds of cocaine worth $13.65 million from a vessel in the Caribbean Sea.
According to the Coast Guard, the interdiction took place on May 25 by the crew of the USS Gravely (DDG 107), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, along with a Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment. The drugs were recovered in 19 bales.
The Coast Guard said the Gravely’s Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure team, supported by the Coast Guard LEDET, led the operation.
Operating under U.S. Northern Command’s maritime homeland defense authorities, Gravely works closely with LEDET teams to target illegal drug trafficking and other maritime threats.
Using the LEDET’s tactical expertise and Gravely’s advanced surveillance and mobility, the joint team extends Coast Guard authority through Navy capabilities, enhancing maritime security in the region, the Coast Guard said.
“Together, the Navy’s mobility and the Coast Guard’s jurisdiction deliver a strong, coordinated response to threats offshore. This is how sea power protects the #homeland,” the Coast Guard said.
The U.S. Coast Guard seized 860 lbs. of cocaine worth $13.6M from a vessel in the Caribbean Sea on May 25. (U.S. Coast Guard) 
The U.S. Coast Guard seized 860 lbs. of cocaine worth $13.6M from a vessel in the Caribbean Sea on May 25. (U.S. Coast Guard) 
The U.S. Coast Guard seized 860 lbs. of cocaine worth $13.6M from a vessel in the Caribbean Sea on May 25. (U.S. Coast Guard)