Washington, D.C. – The United States military announced late Wednesday that recent strikes targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking in international waters resulted in the deaths of eight individuals. The operation, part of an ongoing campaign against what the US deems narcotics smuggling operations, brings the total number of fatalities to at least 115.
The US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) stated that two sets of strikes were carried out on Tuesday and Wednesday. The initial strikes on Tuesday targeted three vessels traveling in convoy formation. According to SOUTHCOM, three individuals, described as “narcoterrorists,” were killed in the initial engagement aboard the first vessel. The remaining individuals on the other two boats reportedly fled, jumping overboard before the vessels were sunk by US forces.
The precise location of the strikes was not disclosed by SOUTHCOM. However, it is known that previous operations have been conducted in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific Ocean, particularly in areas near the Venezuelan coastline. SOUTHCOM indicated that the Coast Guard was notified to “activate search and rescue protocols,” but provided no further information regarding the fate of those who abandoned the other two vessels.
A second statement from the US military announced strikes on two additional vessels on Wednesday, resulting in five fatalities. The location of these attacks remains unclear. These actions underscore the US commitment to combating drug trafficking in the region. The military asserts these operations are conducted within international law and are aimed at disrupting the flow of narcotics.
DZWatch continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
