US Coast Guard Interdictions Including Targeted Boat Destruction in Caribbean Amid Venezuela Tensions
These actions resulted in the seizure of nearly 13,000 pounds (5,897 kilograms) of cocaine and the apprehension of seven suspected smugglers
SOUTH AMERICA / CARIBBEAN — United States Coast Guard forces conducted multiple interdictions over the weekend of September 7-8, 2025, targeting suspected drug smuggling vessels in the southern Caribbean Sea as part of Operation Pacific Viper, with one go-fast vessel disabled through small arms fire, set ablaze, and sunk to eliminate operational capacity and ensure maritime safety.
These actions resulted in the seizure of nearly 13,000 pounds (5,897 kilograms) of cocaine and the apprehension of seven suspected smugglers, conducted in international waters approximately 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) north of Venezuela, without reported injuries or escalation.
No confirmed strikes or operations occurred in Venezuela or surrounding areas during the past 24 hours ending September 10, 2025. Assessments from official sources indicate sustained monitoring of maritime routes, with emphasis on transnational criminal organizations operating from South American waters.
Recent activities align with broader counter-narcotics efforts, including the destruction of a suspected drug vessel on September 2, 2025, which involved fatalities attributed to a Venezuelan-linked group. United States Southern Command coordinates these operations, working with regional partners to disrupt illicit flows.
Intelligence reports highlight the role of groups such as Tren de Aragua in narcotics transport, leading to continued naval patrols. Diplomatic statements stress that these measures focus on criminal networks without intent for direct engagement with Venezuelan military forces.
Recent Interdiction Operations
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