Dominican Republic Seizes 9.5 Tons of Cocaine in Record-Breaking Bust

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — On Friday, authorities in the Dominican Republic made a historic drug seizure, confiscating nearly 9.5 tons of cocaine, valued at $250 million.

This record-breaking haul was discovered hidden within a banana shipment that had arrived at the Caucedo port in Santo Domingo, the nation’s busiest seaport. The shipment, which originated in Guatemala, was en route to Belgium, according to Carlos Devers, the spokesperson for the Dominican Republic’s Anti-Drug Agency. This seizure marks a significant blow to international drug trafficking routes, highlighting the country’s role in combating illicit trade.

Carlos Devers also announced that ten suspects have been arrested in connection with the cocaine shipment. This year alone, authorities in the Dominican Republic have seized nearly 47 tons of drugs. The latest seizure surpasses the previous record, which occurred in 2006, when officials found more than 5,680 pounds (2,580 kilograms) of drugs at the Caucedo port.

The Dominican Republic is a significant drug transit point in the Caribbean, with its ports, particularly the Caucedo port in Santo Domingo, playing a crucial role in the movement of illicit drugs. This port, the country’s largest and most important seaport, serves as a hub for shipments that often pass through on their way to Europe, North America, and other regions. The country’s strategic location makes it a prime target for drug traffickers, particularly those moving cocaine from South America, especially Colombia, and Central America, including Guatemala.