In a significant operation, the U.S. Coast Guard announced the offloading of approximately 8,500 kilograms, or nearly 19,000 pounds, of cocaine valued at over $200 million.
This substantial drug seizure was the result of a collaborative effort by the crews of the Coast Guard Cutter Kimball and the Coast Guard Cutter Forward, occurring from February 2025 through April in the international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
The cocaine was confiscated during six separate interdictions aimed at thwarting drug-smuggling vessels off the coasts of Mexico and Central and South America, as confirmed by Coast Guard officials.
Among the attendees at the announcement were various distinguished guests, including Capt. Jason Hagan, District 11 chief of enforcement, and representatives from the Drug Enforcement Agency and Homeland Security Investigation.
Rear Admiral Joanna Hiigl, acting deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area, emphasized the operation’s significance, stating, “This offload is just one piece of the large and enduring multinational and multi-agency effort to combat international drug cartels…”
She noted the staggering figure of over $1 billion worth of cocaine removed from the Eastern Pacific by the U.S. Coast Guard alone in fiscal year 2025, underscoring their ongoing commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illicit drugs like cocaine and fentanyl.
Hiigl highlighted the negative ripple effects that accompany the narcotics trade, including violence, corruption, and instability as these drugs travel toward the United States.
“To meet and deter the effects of drug-trafficking cartels, it takes a network to defeat a network,” she added, reiterating the need for collective action against these criminal organizations.
Capt. Robert Kinsey, Commanding Officer of the Kimball, commended the operation as a product of a Joint Interagency Task Force collaboration, stating they have denied drug cartels an estimated $215 million in profits through the interception of over nine tons of cocaine.
Kinsey further remarked, “This significant offload represents more than just the seizure of illicit narcotics. It underscores our tireless efforts… in safeguarding our nation’s maritime borders.”
The operation has also fostered international cooperation, with the crew of the Kimball working alongside members of the Mexican Navy, who provided two observers during the deployment.
In addition, Kinsey noted engagement with the Department of Defense and productive exchanges with Panama’s counter-drug enforcement teams, strengthening relationships crucial to combating drug trafficking.
Coast Guard officials expressed satisfaction with their collaboration with Mexico, which aims to eliminate illicit activities in the eastern Pacific.
The Coast Guard Cutter Kimball, homeported in Honolulu, stands as a pivotal asset in this ongoing fight against drug trafficking, exemplifying the dedication of the Coast Guard to uphold maritime security and enforce the rule of law at sea.
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