In a significant narcotics interception, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel in Puerto Rico have confiscated 530 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value exceeding $10 million. The seizure occurred aboard the M/V Lyktos, a vessel arriving from the Dominican Republic, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Caribbean maritime routes.
The discovery was made on November 11 when CBP’s Counter Terrorism Smuggling Enforcement Team conducted routine inspections. Agents identified anomalies in several containers during their initial screening, prompting an intensified examination. The narcotics were concealed using sophisticated methods, including modified chassis compartments and canvas bags strategically hidden within legitimate cargo.
Roberto Vaquero, CBP’s Director of Field Operations in San Juan, emphasized that the operation demonstrates the agency’s continued vigilance and specialized capabilities. “This seizure reflects our commitment to preventing drug trafficking through advanced detection methods and intelligence-driven operations,” Vaquero stated.
Authorities employed multiple resources including detection technology, intelligence analysis, and specially trained canine units to locate the concealed substances. The sophistication of the concealment methods indicates evolving tactics by traffickers attempting to bypass security measures.
Following the seizure, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) has assumed control of the case for further investigation and prosecution. The waters west of Puerto Rico, particularly the Mona Passage separating the island from the Dominican Republic, remain a high-risk zone for drug trafficking activities due to their strategic location and challenging monitoring conditions.