In a significant military operation targeting transnational criminal networks, the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) has confirmed the execution of a lethal kinetic strike against a vessel allegedly engaged in narcotics trafficking with connections to designated terrorist organizations. The operation, authorized by SOUTHCOM Commander General Francis L. Donovan, was carried out on February 20 by Joint Task Force Southern Spear along established drug-smuggling corridors in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
According to official statements released Friday, intelligence assessments indicated the targeted vessel was actively participating in illicit narcotics operations. The military engagement resulted in the deaths of three individuals identified by U.S. authorities as ‘narco-terrorists.’ No American personnel sustained injuries during the operation.
The command’s disclosure maintained operational security by withholding specific details regarding the vessel’s registry, ownership structure, precise coordinates of the engagement, or whether any contraband was recovered post-strike. The identities of the deceased individuals were not disclosed to the public.
This strategic action falls within SOUTHCOM’s broader mandate of overseeing military operations and security cooperation across Central America, South America, and the Caribbean region. Officials characterized the operation as part of continuing counter-narcotics initiatives aimed at disrupting the financial networks that potentially fund terrorist activities through drug trafficking.