NOEM LINKS RECORD DRUG SEIZURE TO TRUMP’S BORDER CRACKDOWN – U.S. Coast Guard Offloads 22.5 Tons of Cocaine, 50 lbs of Marijuana in major drug seizures
The U.S. Coast Guard offloaded 22.5 tons of cocaine and 50 pounds of marijuana at Port Everglades, marking one of the largest drug seizures in recent years. The intercepted narcotics, valued at over half a billion dollars, were confiscated during a 4-month assignment of drug-smuggling vessels off the coasts of Mexico, Central America, and South America.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, speaking at the event, said the seizure underscored the administration’s commitment to border security and combating drug trafficking. “This is an unprecedented seizure of illicit drugs,” Noem said. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are dedicated to making sure the Coast Guard has the resources, equipment, and training to continue their mission.”
The drugs were seized by crews from the U.S. Coast Guard cutters Stone and Mohawk, which played key roles in intercepting smuggling operations in international waters. Large crates filled with cocaine were lowered onto the dock at Port Everglades early morning.
Noem linked the operation to broader immigration policies, saying cartels have become “more desperate” as border security tightens. “As President Trump works to secure the border, criminal networks are being forced to take greater risks,” she said. “We are stopping them at every turn.”
