Guyana-registered vessel intercepted with over 400 lbs of cocaine in T&T

…crew seen loading cargo in T&T; 5 arrested

A vessel that travelled from Guyana to Trinidad and Tobago was intercepted by law enforcement authorities in the twin island republic, leading to the seizure of over 180 kilograms (kg) or 401 pounds (lbs) of cocaine valued at more than TTD $250 million.
According to Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, five individuals were arrested following the operation, which was carried out on Friday, while the vessel was en route to St Martin.
In a statement issued, acting Police Commissioner Junior Benjamin praised the multi-agency effort that led to the seizure, noting, “This seizure not only disrupts the illicit operations of organised crime but also sends a strong message of our unwavering commitment to national security and combatting trans-national organised crime.” He further stated, “Our law enforcement teams remain resolute in their efforts to safeguard our nation and dismantle criminal networks that threaten our communities.”

According to Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, the operation was carried out by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Port of Spain office, the United States (US) Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATF South), and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard (TTCG).
Intelligence officials had reportedly received information that the vessel, which originated in Guyana, was carrying a substantial quantity of narcotics disguised as legitimate cargo.
The vessel arrived in Trinidad on February 25, where authorities immediately placed it under surveillance. On March 11, large shipments of various goods were loaded onto the vessel, and the crew was granted clearance to leave the country. However, an unexpected change in its departure schedule, which saw it leaving in the early hours of March 12 instead, raised further suspicions.
As reported by Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, the TTPS stated, “This unexpected change intensified law enforcement scrutiny. Agencies strategically tracked the vessel’s movements, prepared to intervene should any illicit activity be detected.”
The TTCG later intercepted the vessel in open waters and escorted it to Staubles Bay, where TTPS deployed specialised resources, including a trained canine unit, to conduct an exhaustive search.
After two days of searching, officers discovered a concealed compartment where the drugs were hidden.
The TTPS release stated, “This led to the seizure of 157 packets of cocaine, weighing a combined total of 182.24 kilograms, with an estimated street value of TTD $254,027,980.80.”
The five individuals arrested remain in custody as authorities continue their investigations. While no details have been released about their nationalities or any potential Guyanese connections to the shipment, the vessel’s origin from Guyana is expected to be a key focus as the probe progresses.