Action against drug smuggling at sea: 1,500 kg of cocaine discovered, 12 people arrested

During the operation at sea, more than 1,500 kilograms of cocaine were seized and 12 people were arrested.

The secret international operation was named White Sea 3 and took place along the entire west coast of Europe. The aim is to combat drug smuggling at sea. Because more and more often drugs are left at sea to be picked up, as happens in South America. Kristian Vanderwaeren, Belgian customs: “The cocaine or the drugs are thrown overboard in bags and then there are two ways, either a boat comes to pick it up. Or transmitters are placed in the drugs and so the criminal organizations know where those drugs end up .”

Nice results

The patrol ship Pollux of the navy of Zeebrugge, among others, participated in the action. Smaller boats then look for ships that they can monitor at sea. Thibault Boucquéau, Commander Pollux: “We can embark up to 15 people on board for periods of up to five days. We also have two smaller boats on board to take people from the patrol vessel to the ship to be checked. Sometimes we are used to track ships to avoid a drop-off and to ensure that the drugs reach the port where customs can intercept them more easily.”

Belgian customs is leading the operation. She works closely with the police and army of other European countries, but also with the Colombian police, for example. “Cooperation with Latin America and the United States is very important, but also within Europe. Cooperation between various government agencies, the army, police and customs. It is by bundling these together that we have the great results.”

In total, almost 80 ships were inspected.