Mexico seizes nearly three tonnes of cocaine in Pacific anti-drug operation

Sunday 05 July 2026 - 09:30

By: Sahili Aya

Mexico seizes nearly three tonnes of cocaine in Pacific anti-drug operation

Mexican authorities have seized nearly three tonnes of cocaine and arrested four suspects during a maritime anti-drug operation in the Pacific Ocean, as the government continues to intensify its crackdown on organized crime and narcotics trafficking.

The operation was carried out by the Mexican Navy, which said the interception followed coordinated maritime and aerial surveillance off the coast of the southern state of Oaxaca.

Maritime patrols lead to major drug seizure

According to the Navy, coastguard surveillance teams identified two small vessels operating in the Pacific before dispatching a maritime patrol to intercept them.

During the operation, authorities confiscated close to three tonnes of cocaine and detained the four individuals aboard the boats.

The seized drugs and the suspects were transferred to the appropriate authorities for further legal proceedings.

Part of broader anti-trafficking campaign

The latest operation forms part of Mexico's ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking networks that use maritime routes to transport cocaine toward North America and other international markets.

Mexican security forces have increased maritime surveillance and interdiction operations in recent months, targeting criminal organizations involved in large-scale narcotics smuggling.

Pressure to strengthen enforcement

The intensified anti-drug campaign comes amid continued pressure from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, which has urged Mexico to strengthen enforcement against drug cartels and cross-border trafficking.

Mexican authorities have responded by expanding seizures, arrests and coordinated security operations across both land and maritime routes.

The Pacific coast remains one of the principal corridors used by criminal organizations to transport cocaine originating in South America before it is moved toward consumer markets in North America.