QUITO: In a major blow to transnational drug trafficking rings, the Ecuadorian military has intercepted a 115-foot-long semi-submersible vessel hidden within a nature reserve near the Colombian border. The discovery comes as President Daniel Noboa intensifies the nation’s offensive against powerful narcotics syndicates.
The vessel, described by the Ministry of Defense as a "long-range narco-submarine," was found concealed among mangroves in the Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve. Designed for high-endurance maritime smuggling, the craft was outfitted with approximately 22,700 liters (6,000 gallons) of fuel, indicating it was prepared for an international voyage to destinations as far as the United States, Europe, or Australia.
Logistics Hub Dismantled
During the operation, security forces also uncovered a sophisticated logistics camp used as a staging ground for smuggling operations. In addition to the 35-meter submarine, authorities seized:
- Six high-speed boats
- Seven outboard motors
- Dozens of fuel barrels
The Ministry of Defense reported that troops came under fire from cartel members during the raid. However, the official statement did not confirm any arrests or the recovery of specific narcotics during this particular sweep.
A Strategic Transit Point
Situated between Colombia and Peru—the world’s largest cocaine producers—Ecuador has increasingly become a critical transit hub for illegal shipments. President Noboa, who recently declared a new phase in the war against organized crime, has sought closer security ties with Washington to stem the flow of drugs.
Earlier this week, President Noboa met with General Francis Donovan of the U.S. Southern Command in Quito to discuss bilateral security cooperation. While the U.S. and Ecuador are collaborating closely on intelligence, there was no immediate confirmation of direct U.S. involvement in this specific seizure.
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