In a remarkable start to 2025, President Nayib Bukele announced via Twitter that El Salvador’s National Navy achieved a historic victory against drug trafficking. In a single mission conducted in international waters, nearly 1,000 nautical miles from El Salvador, four drug seizures resulted in the capture of nine traffickers and the confiscation of 4.3 tons of cocaine, valued at over $100 million.
The President detailed each operation:
Operation 1: At 990 nautical miles southwest of Bocana El Cordoncillo, two Ecuadorian traffickers were apprehended with 1,560 kilograms of cocaine, valued at $38.9 million.
Operation 2: Another vessel in the same area carried 1,560 kilograms of cocaine. The crew, a mix of Ecuadorian and Colombian nationals, faced similar charges, with the haul also valued at $38.9 million.
Operation 3: At 850 nautical miles, two Ecuadorian traffickers were found with 599 kilograms of cocaine, valued at $14.9 million.
Operation 4: Finally, at 860 nautical miles, three Ecuadorian traffickers were caught with 626 kilograms of cocaine, valued at $15.6 million.
This operation marks a significant blow to organized crime, underscoring El Salvador’s commitment to combating drug trafficking.
Erik Prince, notable for his involvement in international security, retweeted Bukele’s announcement, praising El Salvador’s efforts with the phrase “Congrats to El Salvador! The plan is working. PACIENCIA…” This reference to “patience” alludes to Bukele’s cryptic messages from January 10 regarding Venezuela’s political situation, emphasizing strategic perseverance in regional issues.
This successful mission not only highlights the effectiveness of El Salvador’s maritime strategy but also signals a broader regional impact in the fight against organized crime.