U.S. Sanctions Target Cocaine Traffickers Using 'Narco Subs'

Washington D.C. The U.S. government has announced sanctions against four Guyanese nationals and two Colombians for their roles in trafficking cocaine. According to U.S. officials, the individuals were involved in a network that used 'narco submarines,' clandestine airstrips, and various intermediaries to transport cocaine. The sanctions aim to disrupt this trafficking operation and prevent further distribution of illegal drugs.

The individuals sanctioned are accused of coordinating and facilitating the movement of cocaine from South America to other destinations. 'Narco submarines,' semi-submersible vessels designed to evade detection, are a favored method for transporting large quantities of drugs across maritime routes. The use of secret airstrips allows for the rapid movement of cocaine via air. The U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued the sanctions.

As a result of these sanctions, any assets the designated individuals hold within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with them. This action underscores the U.S. government's commitment to combating drug trafficking and disrupting criminal networks that threaten national security and public health.