U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) reported the successful sinking of a vessel identified as a ‘floating refueling station’ connected to drug trafficking. This action is part of a broader initiative to combat illegal drug operations.
On September 8, the Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM) intercepted the vessel in the Eastern Pacific. Intelligence confirmed its ties to the Los Choneros, a known narco-terrorist group. U.S. forces removed individuals from the ship and transferred them to Ecuadorian authorities before sinking it.
A statement from SOUTHCOM emphasized their ongoing efforts to target the logistics that support drug trafficking across the Western Hemisphere. This sinking is among several recent operations aimed at vessels associated with the Los Choneros.
The Los Choneros, based in Ecuador, contribute significantly to regional violence and instability. They are involved in various criminal activities such as hired killings, kidnappings, and drug smuggling. They also collaborate with other cartels, including the Sinaloa Cartel and Albanian criminal organizations, to distribute drugs internationally.
LOS CHONEROS: A DANGEROUS FORCE
According to a counterterrorism guide, Los Choneros use prisons and illegal mines for operations, further contributing to their expansive criminal network. The group’s activities pose significant challenges to regional security and are a focus for U.S. counter-narcotic efforts.
This operation reflects ongoing U.S. military efforts to disrupt and dismantle networks facilitating illicit drug trade, marking another step in the fight against drug-related violence and crime.