Coast Guard seizes $209M worth of cocaine, detains 24 suspected smugglers

BOSTON — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Campbell has returned to Kittery, Maine after an 80-day narcotic patrol in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean.

Campbell's crew disrupted six narcotic smuggling ventures, seized about 12,000 pounds of cocaine worth $209 million, and detained 24 suspected smugglers.

"During this challenging deployment, the crew excelled in all assigned missions and should be exceptionally proud of their accomplishments," said Cmdr. Mark McDonnell, commanding officer of the Campbell. "Our efforts to integrate with partner agencies and nations are key to the safe and successful execution of these complex interdiction operations as we work together to remove cocaine bound for the United States and help dismantle criminal networks."

Campbell's crew also rescued three sea turtles found entangled in loose fishing gear.

Cox Media Group