In a major maritime security operation, the U.S. Coast Guard offloaded more than 8,500 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately $214 million in San Diego, following a series of successful interdictions in the Eastern Pacific Ocean between February and April 2025. This large-scale cocaine seizure was carried out in international waters through a coordinated effort between the crews of Coast Guard Cutter Kimball and Cutter Forward.
The illicit cargo was intercepted during six separate maritime interdiction operations targeting drug-smuggling vessels off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America. This reflects an ongoing commitment by U.S. agencies to disrupt narcotics trafficking routes before they reach American shores.
Multinational Cooperation Targets Drug Smuggling Routes
During a press event marking the offload in San Diego, several high-ranking officials emphasized the significance of the operation. Notable attendees included Capt. Jason Hagan of Coast Guard District 11, DEA representatives, and personnel from Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Border Patrol, and Marine Operations.
Rear Admiral Joanna Hiigl, acting deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area, stated, “This offload is just one part of an extensive, multinational, and multi-agency initiative to counter international drug cartels and restrict the inflow of illegal narcotics into the United States.”
She further revealed that in fiscal year 2025 alone, the U.S. Coast Guard has already removed over $1 billion worth of cocaine from the Eastern Pacific a staggering figure that underscores the scale of the threat.
Joint Interagency Task Force Operation Denied Cartels $215M
Captain Robert Kinsey, commanding officer of the Cutter Kimball, highlighted the critical role of interagency coordination: “This offload is the result of a Joint Interagency Task Force package executed by dedicated professionals. Together, we interdicted more than nine tons of pure cocaine and denied drug trafficking organizations an estimated $215 million in profits.”
The operation’s success showcases the growing importance of maritime domain enforcement in the fight against transnational criminal networks. The Coast Guard emphasized its mission to protect life and uphold the maritime rule of law, affirming that the demand for its presence and action is higher than ever.
