In a remarkable achievement, the UK’s Royal Navy, aboard the HMS Trent, has successfully intercepted a “narco sub” for the first time, capturing a stunning $209.4 million worth of cocaine in the Caribbean Sea. This significant operation was conducted in coordination with the US Coast Guard and a US Maritime Patrol Aircraft, marking a notable success in the ongoing battle against narcotics trafficking.
This latest capture is part of a series of eight drug interdictions by the HMS Trent over seven months, amounting to an impressive total of nearly $980.6 million worth of narcotics prevented from flooding the UK’s streets. The Portsmouth-based patrol vessel demonstrated exceptional capabilities in these operations.
Engaging in a complex mission, the ship’s boarding team, including US Coast Guard personnel, Royal Marines from 47 Commando, and specialist sailors, boarded the semi-submersed vessel 190 nautical miles south of the Dominican Republic. There, they seized 4,409 pounds of cocaine. Commander Tim Langford, Commanding Officer of HMS Trent, applauded his team’s efforts across these demanding operations, emphasizing the crucial role played by each crew member, regardless of their usual duties.
The interception on August 26 came just 72 hours following another significant seizure by HMS Trent, where 1,019 pounds of cocaine worth $48.4 million were confiscated. Additionally, in a high-speed chase 90 nautical miles north of the recent narco-sub capture, the HMS Trent seized two suspects and 12 bales of drugs which were subsequently handed over to US authorities.
With these efforts, HMS Trent has now seized a total of 20,854 pounds of narcotics worth nearly $981.6 million. This feat surpasses the previous Royal Navy record held by HMS Argyll and highlights the enduring importance of the Royal Navy’s role in maintaining maritime security and combating international drug trafficking.
These operations disrupt the activities of Transnational Criminal Organizations and are vital in curbing the significant flow of narcotics to Europe and the UK, where an estimated 117 tons are consumed annually. The HMS Trent continues its mission in the Caribbean, also serving as a beam of support for the British Overseas Territories during the hurricane season which runs from June to November.
Beyond drug interdiction, HMS Trent is equipped with specialists and equipment for disaster relief, including the Crisis Response Troop from 24 Commando Royal Engineers, further enhancing its role in regional stability and support. The vessel’s recent visit to the British Virgin Islands for repair activities post-Tropical Storm Ernesto underscores its multi-faceted operational capabilities, including using its onboard drone system, the Puma, operated by the 700X Naval Air Squadron, for essential reconnaissance and surveillance tasks.
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