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Ecuador military uncovers drug-smuggling vessel
Ecuadorian forces have confiscated a 35-meter semi-submersible submarine designed for drug trafficking, hidden within a protected mangrove area near the Colombian border, the country's defense ministry announced.
Vessel details and operation
The submarine, measuring 35 meters (115 feet) in length, was loaded with 6,000 gallons (22,700 liters) of fuel, prepared for an extended smuggling voyage, according to the ministry's statement. Troops discovered the vessel in the Cayapas-Mataje nature reserve, a region known for its dense mangrove swamps.
During the operation, security forces also dismantled a nearby criminal encampment used as a logistics base for preparing smuggling vessels. Alongside the submarine, authorities seized six speedboats, seven outboard motors, and numerous fuel barrels.
Confrontation and aftermath
The defense ministry reported that soldiers encountered gunfire from armed individuals during the raid. However, the statement did not confirm any arrests or the seizure of narcotics.
Ecuador's crackdown on drug trafficking
The discovery follows President Daniel Noboa's recent declaration of a intensified campaign against drug cartels. Ecuador, situated between Colombia and Peru-two of the world's largest cocaine producers-has become a critical transit route for illicit drugs destined for the U.S., Europe, and Australia.
Noboa has strengthened collaboration with the U.S. to disrupt drug flows from Ecuador. Earlier this week, he met with General Francis Donovan, commander of U.S. Southern Command, in Quito to discuss security cooperation. While the U.S. was not mentioned as directly involved in the submarine operation, American forces have conducted multiple strikes on suspected drug vessels in the Pacific and Caribbean under Operation Southern Spear, launched in September. Those operations have resulted in over 150 fatalities.
Broader implications
The seizure highlights the growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks in the region, as well as Ecuador's escalating efforts to counter them. The use of semi-submersible vessels, capable of evading radar detection, underscores the challenges faced by authorities in intercepting illicit shipments.
