In a series of successful operations, the British Royal Navy warship HMS Trent, alongside British sailors, Royal Marines, and a US Coast Guard team, intercepted suspected smuggling speedboats in the Caribbean, resulting in the seizure of drugs with an estimated street value of £290.66 million, equivalent to $367.71 million.
The first interception occurred south of the United States Virgin Islands when the joint forces confronted a suspected smuggling speedboat. Despite the smugglers attempting to offload their illegal cargo while fleeing towards land, HMS Trent, utilizing her fast sea boats and supported by an American patrol aircraft, gave chase. The pursuit culminated in the recovery of over 2,700kg of cocaine and other drugs, valued at £220.56 million ($279.71 million).
Secretary of State for Defence, Grant Shapps, emphasized the Royal Navy’s commitment to disrupting drug traffickers globally. He stated, “This operation sends a clear message: The Royal Navy remains resolute in its efforts to disrupt and dismantle the operations of drug traffickers across the world.”
HMS Trent’s success continued with a second drug bust within three weeks, seizing £70.1 million ($88.88 million) worth of cocaine in a separate operation in January. During this operation, Royal Marines coxswains and the USCG boarding team, engaged in a high-speed chase, successfully detained four crew members and recovered almost 900kg of cocaine during a ten-hour search.
A Royal Marine involved in the operation praised the team’s efforts, stating, “This was a challenging operation and required us to push the boats to their limit.”
Commanding Officer, Commander Tim Langford, expressed pride in the ship’s achievements, highlighting the dedication of the team and collaboration with USCG colleagues.
HMS Trent’s Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Mike Rydiard, emphasized the coordinated efforts of the combined team in challenging conditions, resulting in a significant impact on disrupting criminal networks and upholding maritime security in the region.
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