Janice R. Andrews
The Mexican Navy achieved a milestone in its fight against drug trafficking with a massive seizure valued at over $100 million. This operation, conducted off the Pacific coast near Lazaro Cardenas, resulted in the confiscation of 8.4 tonnes of narcotics, making it the largest drug haul in the navy’s history. The operation also led to the arrest of 23 suspects and the seizure of six vessels, including a submersible craft, highlighting the sophisticated nature of the drug smuggling network.
Additionally, 8,700 liters of fuel were confiscated during the raid. Lazaro Cardenas, located in Michoacan state, is known to be a stronghold of the violent Jalisco Nueva Generacion cartel.
Mexico, which serves as a crucial transit point for drugs destined for the United States, continues its ongoing battle against narcotics trafficking and associated violence. Since 2006, the government has enlisted the army in this fight, but drug-related violence remains a significant issue, with over 450,000 deaths and numerous disappearances reported.
While this recent seizure is remarkable, it doesn’t surpass Mexico’s largest drug bust to date. That record still belongs to a 2007 operation where authorities intercepted 23 tonnes of Colombian cocaine.
