Dominican authorities seize 641 packages of suspected cocaine

Pedernales.- Dominican authorities, led by the National Directorate of Drug Control (DNCD) and the Dominican Navy, seized 641 packages of suspected cocaine during a coordinated maritime operation off the coast of Pedernales. Supported by state intelligence agencies and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the operation targeted a speedboat attempting to smuggle drugs into the country.

The interdiction occurred several nautical miles south of Cabo Rojo after hours of pursuit. Authorities intercepted the 23-foot vessel, confiscating 23 bales containing the suspected drugs, along with a 5.56 caliber rifle, ammunition, a GPS device, fuel containers, and other evidence. Two Dominican nationals were arrested during the operation.

This seizure follows another recent bust in the same area, where 958 packages of cocaine and marijuana were confiscated from five individuals. Authorities have intensified efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks, resulting in the confiscation of 43.1 tons of drugs in 2024, with December marking the highest monthly total of 11,694 kilograms. The detained suspects will face legal proceedings, while the seized packages are undergoing analysis to confirm their contents and weight.