The Coast Guard has seized over 150,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific since August as part of Operation Pacific Viper, with a record bust of over 20,000 pounds occurring earlier this month. The operation involves various Coast Guard assets and aims to disrupt drug trafficking from Latin America, with seized drugs valued at over $1.1 billion. U.S. authorities have intensified efforts against these drug vessels, employing controversial tactics including lethal strikes on some boats. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the operation’s importance in combating foreign drug cartels and protecting American lives.
