WILLEMSTAD – In 2024, the Coast Guard Caribbean Region intercepted nearly 16,000 kilograms of narcotics, according to the Coast Guard’s Annual Report 2024 released today. The seized contraband included more than 11,000 kilograms of cocaine and nearly 4,500 kilograms of marijuana and hemp. 

The Coast Guard units worked closely with partner agencies such as the United States Coast Guard and Defense Forces. Many of the operations were joint efforts, with the Coast Guard often responsible for the initial detection or for providing critical intelligence. The report highlights that such collaborations remain crucial in the fight against transnational organized crime. 

Beyond drug seizures, the Coast Guard achieved significant results in other areas. In 2024, units responded to 225 search and rescue missions at sea, saving 420 lives. Additionally, over 2,000 inspections were conducted, leading to more than 580 official reports of violations, including infractions in maritime traffic and fishing regulations. 

The Coast Guard emphasized in the report that the presence of a patrol aircraft, such as the Dash-8, continued to be of great value. The aircraft regularly played a key role in detecting suspicious vessels and supporting rescue operations. 

Increased Deployment on Curaçao 

On Curaçao, there was an increased deployment of Coast Guard personnel in 2024, partly due to enhanced cooperation with other judicial agencies in the region. Patrols based out of the Curaçao station actively contributed to controlling drug trafficking and ensuring maritime security. 

The cutter Jaguar, stationed in Curaçao, was sent to Suriname for scheduled maintenance in 2024. The Coast Guard stressed that the maintenance was necessary due to the vessel’s age and essential to ensure its operational readiness for the coming years. 

Cooperation with Colombia was also intensified. A permanent Colombian liaison officer has been stationed in Curaçao to strengthen the flow of information about drug trafficking. At the same time, the Coast Guard maintained close contact with the Judicial Four-Party Consultation (Justitieel Vierpartijenoverleg) and other chain partners in Curaçao to tackle organized crime.