S. Coast Guard operation resulted in the apprehension of a stowaway cocaine smuggler and the seizure of 10 bales of cocaine in San Juan Harbor, Puerto Rico. 25 pounds and is estimated to have a wholesale value of more than $5 million.
The suspect faces federal prosecution on drug trafficking charges. S. Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and Puerto Rico Police.
, Jan. 28, 2026, led to the discovery of the stowaway. The Sector San Juan Command Center watchstanders received the report and launched a response, alerting other agencies to join in the operation.
Once on scene, the Station San Juan boat crew sighted and recovered one person and 10 bales of suspected contraband from the water. Subsequent boarding operations by Sector Boarding Team and Customs and Border Protection officers found no additional stowaways or contraband onboard. The seized cocaine is believed to have originated from South America, but the exact country of origin has not been confirmed.
Law enforcement officials are working to determine the full extent of the smuggling operation and identify any other individuals involved. The apprehension of this stowaway marks a significant success for authorities in disrupting cocaine trafficking efforts in Puerto Rico's ports.
This incident highlights the ongoing threat of cocaine smuggling in U.S. territories, particularly in San Juan Harbor. The fact that the smuggler managed to evade detection for so long underscores the importance of vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
