U.S. Southern Command released footage of the seizing and sinking of a vessel in the Pacific Ocean, on Friday, August 28, 2026. (Courtesy: US Southern Command via Storyful)
Newly released video shows the U.S. military seizing and sinking a vessel that was suspected of being used as a floating gas station by a prominent narco-terrorist group.
Big picture view:
On Friday, the Marines and sailors from the USS San Antonio intercepted the floating refueling station in international waters of the Pacific Ocean and boarded the vessel. The U.S. service members searched the vessel, took everyone aboard into custody, and then sank the ship, U.S. Southern Command explained in its post.
What they're saying:
"Today's operation is a stark example of the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition's power to dismantle the sophisticated, clandestine narco-terrorist tactics and capabilities that have enabled the trafficking of dangerous drugs destined for American communities," Gen. Francis L. Donovan, commander of U.S. Southern Command, said.
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U.S. Southern Command released footage of the seizing and sinking of a vessel in the Pacific Ocean, on Friday, August 28, 2026. (Courtesy: US Southern Command via Storyful)
Why you should care:
Donovan explained that the destruction of the refueling point disrupts the logistical networks that allow narco-terrorist organizations and cartels to operate in the Western Hemisphere. He added that the operation, which was done in conjunction with the Ecuadorian government, "fractured a primary artery of this illicit logistics chain and sent an unmistakable message to narco-terrorists across the region."
U.S. Southern Command released footage of the seizing and sinking of a vessel in the Pacific Ocean, on Friday, August 28, 2026. (Courtesy: US Southern Command via Storyful)
The backstory:
Prior to Friday’s actions, the vessel was identified and targeted by Treasury Department sanctions, the military noted. The crew was allegedly working to support the Los Choneros organization.
U.S. Southern Command released footage of the seizing and sinking of a vessel in the Pacific Ocean, on Friday, August 28, 2026. (Courtesy: US Southern Command via Storyful)
The Source: Information for this article was taken from U.S. Southern Command. This story was reported from Orlando.