America

169 tons of cocaine seized in Multinational Operation Orion

169 tons of cocaine seized in Multinational Operation Orion

Military and police authorities from more than 40 countries in the Americas, Europe and Africa seized 169 tons of cocaine in the ninth phase of the multinational naval operation against drug trafficking Orion, Colombian Defense Minister Diego Molano reported Friday.

This is the highest number of cocaine seized in the multinational operation to fight drug trafficking.

In the Orion IX Naval Campaign, which took place between March and May, 602 people of different nationalities were also captured and 90 boats were immobilized, including a semi-submersible, according to the balance presented by Colombia.

“The Orion Campaign reflects that multilateral commitment of nations, agencies, our Armed Forces and police, to reduce the supply of illicit drugs, protect our young people from addiction and contribute to security,” Molano said at a conference of press.

In the last phase of the operation, which had the support of 106 agencies from 41 countries and the participation of warships, coast guards, planes and helicopters, 41 tons of marijuana were also seized.

Since the Orion campaign began in 2018, more than 716 tons of cocaine and 216 tons of marijuana have been confiscated among all the countries that make up the international coalition, according to the Colombian Navy.

Connect with the Voice of America! Subscribe to our channel Youtube and turn on notifications, or follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram



Source link