Department’s of Homeland Security agencies detected and chased a suspected smuggling boat that was illegally transmitting about 1,400 pounds of marijuana, about 40 miles southwest of San Diego. The incident took place on July 25.
Specifically, San Diego’s Joint Harbor Operations Center (JHOC) watchstanders were reported by the Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations crews that there was a suspected smuggling activity onboard a 35-foot vessel.
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When the Dorado crew arrived at the area of the scene, they boarded the vessel and discovered about 1,400 pounds of marijuana.
Consequently, the two suspects were detained and their vessel was taken into custody. Also, Homeland Security Investigation’s Marine Task Force took custody of the suspected smugglers and contraband.
Capt. Arthur Snyder, 11th Coast Guard District chief of response, commenting on the incident, stated
The Dorado has demonstrated they are capable of executing a wide range of missions, whether it is enforcing fishing regulations off the California, Oregon border, interdicting drugs off the California, Mexico border or saving lives anywhere in between, they are ready to serve the American public.
In general, the USCG is making great efforts to detect and intercept illegal, smuggling activities. In late July, the USCG found 2,300 pounds of cocaine, which the suspects were seen throwing some of their cargo in the sea. Another incident took place in June, when the USCG was chasing a narco sub and USCG members managed to jump onboard the illegal vessel and detain it.