WILLEMSTAD – The Coast Guard intercepted a major drug shipment yesterday morning near Klein Curaçao, seizing around 230 kilograms of cocaine. Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.

Suspicious Vessel Tracked

The Maritime Operations Center of the Coast Guard received a report early Thursday of a suspicious boat traveling north toward Klein Curaçao.

A Metal Shark patrol vessel was immediately dispatched from the Curaçao station, and a helicopter was deployed to monitor the situation.

Upon interception, the vessel was identified as a local fishing boat. The crew, consisting of two people, was escorted to the Coast Guard base in Parera for a full inspection.

Major Drug Bust

At the base, Coast Guard officers, working with Customs personnel and the assistance of a sniffer dog, discovered a large stash of packages hidden onboard. The haul was confirmed to be approximately 230 kilos of cocaine.

The two suspects, along with the drugs, were handed over to the police for further investigation. Authorities have confirmed that the narcotics have since been destroyed.

This operation marks one of the larger drug seizures in recent months, underscoring the ongoing challenges in combating drug trafficking through Caribbean waters.