The U.S. Coast Guard has released a video showcasing the destruction of a vessel carrying illicit drugs bound for the United States, marking another victory in its ongoing Operation Pacific Viper. The operation, launched in early August, targets drug trafficking networks operating in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

According to recent data, the Coast Guard intercepts approximately 1,600 pounds of drugs daily and has apprehended at least 36 suspected smugglers since the mission began. A September 4 press release highlighted that over 40,000 pounds of cocaine have been seized in the Eastern Pacific Ocean since the operation’s start. These efforts include 14 interdictions since August 8, with additional resources such as cutters, aircraft, and tactical teams deployed to disrupt transshipment routes.

Rear Adm. Douglas Schofield, acting deputy commandant for operations, emphasized the Coast Guard’s role in combating transnational criminal organizations. “The men and women of the Coast Guard will not relent in our efforts to control, secure, and defend U.S. borders,” he stated.

Recent milestones include the offloading of 76,140 pounds of illicit drugs—primarily cocaine and marijuana—in Port Everglades, Florida. This marked the largest seizure in Coast Guard history, resulting from 19 interdictions in international waters. Coordination with agencies like the U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force-South ensures continuous monitoring of drug trafficking routes.

As the lead federal agency for maritime drug interdiction, the Coast Guard operates under the Department of Homeland Security to safeguard national borders and disrupt criminal networks.