The U.S. Coast Guard Just Seized Over $500 Million in Drugs—Here’s How They Did It!

In a major drug bust, the U.S. Coast Guard has successfully offloaded over $517.5 million worth of illegal drugs at Port Everglades in Florida. The massive seizure, which includes cocaine and marijuana, is part of the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Western Hemisphere.

The operation was carried out by the Coast Guard’s cutters and aircrews who, over several months, tracked and intercepted vessels suspected of drug trafficking in international waters. This large-scale operation resulted in the confiscation of over 30,000 pounds of drugs, which were offloaded at Port Everglades on March 20, 2025.

A Collaborative Effort

The drug seizure was made possible through coordinated efforts between the U.S. Coast Guard, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and other international law enforcement agencies. These combined efforts are part of Operation Martillo, a U.S. strategy aimed at targeting transnational criminal organizations operating in the Central American and Caribbean regions.

The drugs were recovered from various interdictions in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the eastern Pacific Ocean, highlighting the Coast Guard’s ongoing mission to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks that fuel the global drug trade.

Significance of the Seizure

The over $517.5 million worth of drugs represents a significant victory in the war on drugs, not only in terms of monetary value but also in terms of the impact on the safety and security of U.S. communities. The interception of these drugs prevents them from reaching their intended destinations, reducing the supply and potential harm caused by these illegal substances.

“This is a testament to the professionalism, dedication, and relentless efforts of the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard,” said Admiral Linda Fagan, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. “This seizure is another success in our ongoing fight to protect our communities and disrupt the operations of dangerous criminal organizations.”

Ongoing Operations and Impact

The U.S. Coast Guard has made significant progress in curbing drug trafficking in recent years, with increased funding, improved technology, and enhanced international partnerships. The recent offloading at Port Everglades shows that efforts to dismantle drug trafficking organizations remain a top priority for U.S. law enforcement agencies.

As the Coast Guard continues its work in the region, authorities remain vigilant in the fight against drug trafficking, knowing that every successful seizure helps protect the safety of U.S. citizens.