The Brazilian Navy, in collaboration with the Federal Police, has made the largest cocaine seizure (3,6 tons) ever in Brazilian waters. The government emphasizes that this is due to the continued cooperation and coordination of its agencies to combat illegal activities along the Brazilian coast.
According to the Navy report, they intercepted a small coastal vessel, the Palmares 1, about 18 nautical miles from Recife. Few details were provided about the catch. The small ship was on its way to Africa.
Cocaine smuggling
After stopping the ship, they discovered large bales in the cabin cocaine. Police arrested five crew members and the navy said the ship was towed to Recife. The crew members could face up to 35 years in prison on international drug trafficking charges.
The Navy emphasizes that the seizure was part of its efforts to protect Brazil's immense area of coastline and territorial waters. They recognize various threats, including illegal fishing, smuggling and drug trafficking.
Currently, the Navy has three patrol vessels in service to monitor activities in the area. They note that the ships are designed for long distances and offer greater range. They are also capable of sailing on the high seas in bad weather.
To protect and monitor Brazilian waters, the Navy has developed the Blue Amazon Management System (SisGAAz). The tool, which has been in use for the past two years, integrates various equipment and systems and is connected to networks of the various government agencies. It facilitates information sharing.
More interceptions
The Navy reports that the figures show that the joint actions have had results. From 2020 to date, they have seized more than 17 tons of cocaine, 4,3 tons of hashish, 695 tons of cigarettes, 113,34 tons of fish, 15,7 tons of marijuana and 3.146 cubic meters of illegal timber exports.
The federal government has also committed to expanding efforts. The Navy expects the addition of two more patrol ships. They are also trying to involve the Mangaratiba patrol vessel in the operations. The project for this ship was stopped in 2016, but restarted in 2019. It is currently under construction at the Rio de Janeiro Navy Arsenal and is expected to enter service in 2025.
Source: maritime-executive.com (EN)
