Authorities interdict narco-terrorist refueling vessel on Sept 5, 2026

U.S. Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere forces, acting at the direction of U.S. Southern Command, interdicted a multi-vessel floating refueling station supporting illicit at-sea drug trafficking operations in the Eastern Pacific on Sept. 5.

Intelligence determined the vessels were operating in support of Los Choneros, a violent narco-terrorist organization. Individuals removed from the main vessel were transferred to Ecuadorian authorities.

After the main vessel was cleared and the crew disembarked, U.S. forces sank it along with the attached support vessels.

Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere said it continues precise, professional operations aimed at dismantling the logistical networks fueling narco-trafficking across the Western Hemisphere.