Costa Rica and U.S. Authorities Seize 4.4 Tons of Cocaine in Major Pacific Operation

Joint Operation Yields Massive Cocaine Seizure

In a significant blow to transnational drug trafficking, Costa Rican and United States authorities successfully seized approximately 4.4 tons (4,400 kilograms) of cocaine during a joint maritime operation conducted on Thursday, November 28, 2025. The interdiction took place approximately 170 nautical miles off Puerto Golfito in Costa Rica's Pacific Ocean, underscoring the ongoing collaborative efforts to combat narcotics flow in the region.

The operation involved a coordinated effort between the Costa Rican Coast Guard, the Drug Control Police, the Special Support Unit, and the Intelligence and Criminal Analysis Directorate under the Ministry of Public Security. They worked alongside members of the U.S. Coast Guard and were backed by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Details of the Interception and Arrests

Authorities intercepted a 'go-fast' vessel, described as a 32-foot boat without visible registration or a national flag, after the DEA alerted local officials to its suspicious activity. The crew reportedly attempted evasive maneuvers, but combined air and sea monitoring allowed forces to quickly close in. During the capture, the vessel reportedly went down.

Two Colombian men, identified by their last names Moreno and Hernández, who were manning the vessel, were arrested on the spot. They are currently being held under the jurisdiction of the Puntarenas Public Ministry and face international drug trafficking charges.

Strategic Context and International Cooperation

This successful seizure is part of regular patrols established through a maritime agreement between Costa Rica and the U.S. Southern Command. This pact facilitates shared patrols, real-time intelligence exchange, and swift responses, which have led to numerous large drug interdictions in recent years.

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves praised the operation at a press conference, emphasizing the crucial role of U.S. assistance in these efforts and calling the seizure 'a clear win for security cooperation.' Costa Rica's security minister also referred to the operation as 'historic.' Leaders from both nations highlighted how this effort demonstrates the strength of their teamwork in disrupting sea routes used to transport drugs from South American production areas to markets in North America and across the Atlantic.

Impact on Drug Trafficking Networks

The 4.4-ton cocaine seizure represents a substantial blow to drug trafficking networks that utilize Costa Rica as a key transit point. Costa Rica's strategic geographical location makes it a frequent route for narcotics moving from South America towards North American and European markets. This year has seen a high point for Costa Rica in drug seizures, with totals already surpassing previous records, a testament to tighter partnerships and improved tools.

The ongoing efforts are further bolstered by recent constitutional changes in Costa Rica that now permit the extradition of Costa Rican nationals charged with serious offenses like drug trafficking, leading to several extradition cases with the U.S. This operation underscores Costa Rica's commitment to combating organized crime and its growing role as a key player in Central America's anti-drug initiatives.