Bukele's historic operation! 167 million dollars worth of drugs seized.

Bukele's historic operation! 167 million dollars worth of drugs seized.

09.07.2026 09:20

In the operation announced by El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, the country's navy seized 6.68 tons of cocaine with a market value of approximately 167 million dollars in the Pacific Ocean. Six foreign nationals were detained in the raids, which are recorded as the largest drug operation in the country's history.

In the operation announced by El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, the Navy stopped two separate drug boats in the Pacific Ocean. The first boat was stopped approximately 582 nautical miles off the country's coast, and about six hours later, an operation was carried out on the second boat in the same area.

In the operations, a total of 6.68 tons of drugs were seized, and it was announced that their market value is approximately 167 million dollars.

6 FOREIGN SUSPECTS DETAINED

Authorities reported that 6 foreign nationals found on the boats were detained. According to the statement, the suspects include citizens of Colombia and Ecuador.

Seized drugs on a boat

LARGEST SEIZURE IN COUNTRY'S HISTORY

Bukele described the operation as "the biggest blow against drug trafficking in El Salvador's history."

Authorities stated that the seized amount surpassed the previous record established in February, when 6.606 tons of drugs were seized. Thus, El Salvador has seized a total of 13.286 tons of drugs in 2026.

Another drug boat intercepted

INCREASED PATROLS IN THE PACIFIC

El Salvador security forces announced that naval patrols in the Pacific Ocean will be increased and operations against international drug trafficking will continue. Authorities emphasized that they will not allow the country to be used as a transit point for drug routes.

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