WILLEMSTAD - The Dutch navy ship HNLMS Groningen, operating for the Caribbean Coast Guard, intercepted two drug shipments near Curaçao on August 20 and August 22.
During its patrols, HNLMS Groningen was informed about the go-fast boats by the Caribbean Coast Guard and received assistance from the Coast Guard's Dash-8 aircraft in both cases. Using the fast intercept boats, known as FRISCs, carrying a combined team of the ship's crew and the Fleet Marine Squadron embarked on HNLMS Groningen, the go-fast boats were pursued. As the first go-fast boat didn't stop even after warnings and warning shots, targeted fire was used to disable its outboard motors. The second go-fast boat stopped after warning shots were fired.
In total, the Groningen intercepted over 2,500 kilograms of drugs, including 550 kilograms of cocaine and over 2,000 kilograms of marijuana in the second case. Both incidents were handled in close cooperation with the Caribbean Coast Guard and the Curaçao Police Force. All confiscated drugs have been destroyed.
Since May 2023, HNLMS Groningen has been actively operating in the Caribbean region as a stationed ship, alternating between counter-drug operations and supporting the Caribbean Coast Guard.