BREAKING: The US military has confirmed a strike on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the death of one individual. This operation was announced by US Southern Command on Monday, October 23, 2023, and is part of an ongoing effort to combat narco-trafficking in the region.
According to a post on social media by US Southern Command, intelligence indicated that the low-profile boat was navigating established narco-trafficking routes. The command stated, “Intelligence confirmed the low-profile vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations.” However, no concrete evidence has been presented to substantiate these claims.
A video released by US Southern Command exhibits the moments following the strike, capturing splashes of water and subsequent explosions as flames engulf the rear of the vessel. The footage shows the boat drifting with a significant fire patch alongside, raising serious questions about the nature of these military actions.
Since early September, at least 105 individuals have lost their lives in 29 documented strikes, raising alarms among lawmakers and human rights advocates. Critics argue the operations lack sufficient evidence linking targets to drug smuggling, dubbing the strikes as potential extrajudicial killings.
The strikes are part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration aimed at disrupting drug flows into the United States and exerting pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. In parallel, the US Coast Guard has intensified efforts to intercept oil tankers in the Caribbean Sea, further illustrating the administration’s aggressive stance.
This latest strike underscores a significant escalation in military operations against suspected drug traffickers, prompting urgent discussions regarding the repercussions of such military actions. As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to assess the impact of these military engagements on regional stability and human rights.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
