This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
On July 2, 2020, Colombian and US authorities made a significant cocaine seizure near Panamanian waters, marking a major blow to the international drug trade.
According to the Colombian Defense Ministry, the operation involved the Colombian national police and navy, in coordination with United States authorities, who intercepted a Colombian-flagged boat carrying over 7.5 tonnes of cocaine hydrochloride in international waters.
The seized cargo, valued at $286 million, was allegedly destined for the international market via Clan del Golfo cartel contacts in Central America and Europe.
Colombia is the world's largest producer of cocaine and coca leaves, while the United States is the largest consumer, according to the United Nations.
