The United States Embassy in El Salvador has praised the efforts of President Nayib Bukele’s government in the ongoing battle against organized drug trafficking. U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador, William Duncan, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to combating drug crime, emphasizing that the successes in security are beneficial not only for El Salvador but also for the wider region.
“El Salvador continues to consistently show its commitment to security and to the fight against organized drug trafficking groups. We will continue to applaud these successes that benefit our two countries and the entire region,” Ambassador Duncan stated.
The latest operation by El Salvador’s National Navy dealt a decisive blow to criminal networks. The Navy intercepted two Costa Rican fishing boats 300 nautical miles (556 kilometers) southwest of Bocana El Cordoncillo, in the Estero de Jaltepeque. The first boat, the White Shark X, was carrying 1.5 tons of cocaine, valued at approximately $39 million. The second boat, the Golfitin X, was found to be a refueling vessel.
A total of eight Costa Rican traffickers aboard the boats have been detained and will face justice. In the past year, El Salvador’s National Navy has seized a total of 22.6 tons of cocaine, with an estimated value of $565.2 million.
President Bukele, who continues to lead the country’s strong stance against drug trafficking, said, “God guides our plan,” as he reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to combating organized crime and strengthening security efforts.