The United States military has confirmed the execution of a targeted strike on a vessel suspected of narcotics smuggling in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The operation, conducted by Joint Task Force Southern Spear on November 15, was authorized by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, according to a statement released by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
The vessel, reportedly operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization, was intercepted while navigating a known drug-trafficking route in international waters. Intelligence assessments indicated that the craft was transporting narcotics at the time of the strike. The operation led to the elimination of three male individuals identified as narco-terrorists aboard the vessel.
SOUTHCOM emphasized that this interdiction is part of broader, ongoing efforts to dismantle transnational criminal networks active in the region. The strike underscores the U.S. military’s commitment to combating illicit activities that threaten regional security and stability. This operation highlights the strategic use of military force to disrupt organized crime and narco-terrorism in international waters.