Dominican Republic makes record-breaking Cocaine bust at Santo Domingo Port

Authorities in the Dominican Republic have seized nearly 9.5 tons of cocaine, marking the largest drug confiscation in the nation’s history.

The massive haul, valued at approximately $250 million, was discovered hidden within a banana shipment at the Caucedo port in the capital, Santo Domingo, the country’s busiest seaport. Officials revealed that the shipment originated from Guatemala and was en route to Belgium.

Carlos Devers, spokesperson for the Dominican Republic’s Anti-Drug Agency, announced the breakthrough during a press conference on Friday, confirming that 10 suspects are in custody in connection with the case.

The Dominican Republic has long been recognized as a critical transit hub for narcotics trafficking in the Caribbean. This record-setting seizure highlights the persistent challenges authorities face in combatting drug smuggling operations in the region.

In comparison, the previous largest drug confiscation occurred in 2006, when over 5,680 pounds (2,580 kilograms) of narcotics were discovered at the same port.

With this operation, Dominican authorities have intercepted a total of nearly 47 tons of drugs so far in 2024, underscoring the government’s intensified crackdown on illicit trafficking.

“This seizure reflects our commitment to dismantling international drug networks and protecting our country’s borders,” Devers stated.

The investigation into the shipment and its connections to international drug cartels is ongoing, with Dominican officials vowing to collaborate with global partners to address the root causes of narcotics smuggling.

Amnewsworld will continue to monitor developments on this historic drug bust. Stay tuned for updates.