WILLEMSTAD - The Dutch patrol vessel HNLMS Holland made a successful drug seizure in the Caribbean Sea last week. During a patrol, a high-speed smuggling boat, known as a go-fast, was intercepted with over two tons of drugs onboard.
The seizure was made possible thanks to a report from the Coast Guard Caribbean’s Dash 8 patrol aircraft, which had located the suspicious vessel near the ABC islands.
Following the report, HNLMS Holland deployed its fast interceptor boats, the Friscs, with a combined team of ship's crew, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Fleet Marine Squadron onboard.
The onboard helicopter, an NH90, was also used to provide aerial support. The suspects aboard the smuggling boat ignored several orders to stop, necessitating targeted shots at the boat's engines to end the pursuit.
Large Quantity Seized
There were nine occupants on the go-fast. A total of 52 packages were seized, containing 210 kilos of cocaine and 2,110 kilos of marijuana. The suspects and the drugs were handed over to the U.S. Coast Guard. One of the occupants was injured and was airlifted to Curaçao for medical treatment.
HNLMS Holland claims to play a crucial role in combating drug smuggling in the region. The vessel regularly participates in counter-drug operations and works closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Caribbean.
Thanks to its swift response and effective collaboration, the crew of HNLMS Holland successfully carried out this operation, removing a significant amount of drugs from smugglers.