WILLEMSTAD - The number of drug trafficking attempts to the islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao has significantly increased in 2024, according to the Caribbean Coast Guard's 2024 Annual Report. 

The Coast Guard has been working closely with international partners and the San José Pact to intercept these shipments. In total, 11,169 kilograms of cocaine and 4,470 kilograms of marijuana were seized. There were 88 arrests, and 231 vessels were inspected. 

A notable trend was that many shipments originated from South America, often from Venezuela. The ongoing instability in Venezuela, driven by a lack of democracy and an economic crisis, continues to contribute to the smuggling activities. 

Despite extensive monitoring efforts, the Coast Guard reported no significant decrease in the number of incidents. "The situation requires continuous monitoring, particularly given the role of countries like Colombia and Venezuela in drug production," stated the Coast Guard.