The crew of CFB Esquimalt-based HMCS Nanaimo and the US Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment have teamed up for their first drug seizure and it was a major one.
On October 30th, off the coast of Mexico, HMCS Nanaimo pursued a vessel with the help of a Maritime Patrol Aircraft.
The crew then intercepted the panga-type vessel carrying an estimated 680 kilograms of cocaine.
The Coast Guard seized approximately 478 kg of cocaine, the remainder was lost when the vessel was sunk.
Three suspects were taken into custody.
HMCS Nanaimo is in the region on a mission known as Operation Caribbe, the CAF support to a multi-lateral mission known as Operation Martillo.
The crew is there to support efforts to stop illicit trafficking in the waters off the Pacific coast of Central America.
During the law enforcement phase of the mission, sailors are also involved in the actual interception, boarding and seizure of contraband under operational control of the U.S. Coast Guard.
This is the 11th year Canada has participated in Operation Caribbe.
HMCS Nanaimo left on September 28th and is due to return to CFB Esquimalt in December.
Photos: MARPAC Imaging Services
Ben O'Hara
