Massive Drug Bust at LA Port: Coast Guard, HSI Seize Over $6M in Cocaine
The U.S. Coast Guard and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) seized approximately $6.4 million in illicit drugs from an oil tanker in the port of Los Angeles.
A Coast Guard narcotics detection canine alerted law enforcement to the suspected contraband on board the ship Aquatravesia.
“HSI’s swift response and investigative expertise were instrumental in identifying and seizing over 226 kilograms of cocaine destined for our communities,” said HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “We remain dedicated to pursuing those who attempt to exploit our ports and transportation systems, and to working with our partners to disrupt criminal organizations that threaten public safety.”
One person was arrested and two others were taken into custody.
According to an affidavit filed in the case, law enforcement was tipped that the Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged Aquatravesia departed from Ecuador and was carrying a large shipment of drugs intended for a Mexican cartel. Numerous packages were hidden inside the garbage room, believed to contain narcotics.
“The success of this narcotics seizure is a testament to the coordinated efforts of the DHS enterprise to dismantle the efforts of drug smugglers under our respective authorities and responsibilities,” said Captain Stacey Crecy, Sector Commander at Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach.
Coast Guard to Expand DSF Units
The seizure comes as the U.S. Coast Guard pushes for more money for specialized teams equipped at intercepting contraband on the high seas.
In its fiscal year (FY) 2027 budget request, the Coast Guard requested $80 million to add more than 650 personnel to its Deployable Specialized Forces (DSF) units. It also announced a new Special Missions Command putting all the DSF units under a single leader.
“We are forging our most elite operators into a single, razor-sharp instrument of national power. This is not an administrative change; it is an investment ensuring these elite teams are ready to protect the Homeland and support the Joint Force,” said Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday.
The new command will be based at the Coast Guard C5I Service Center facility in Kearneysville, West Virginia and is expected to attain initial operating capability by October 2026.
