Dominica Police Seize Record $37.4 Million in Cocaine and Cannabis

The Dominica Police Force has made the largest drug bust in its history, seizing 1,393 kilograms of cocaine worth EC$37.4 million and 37 pounds of cannabis valued at EC$74,000 in two separate operations in April 2024. Acting Police Chief Davidson Valerie announced the record-breaking seizures that took place in the towns of Marigot and Castle Bruce.

On April 3, 2024, police intercepted 696.82 kilograms (1,533 pounds) of cocaine with a street value of EC$18.6 million from a vessel named La-mere Fatal that had run aground on Cabana Beach in Marigot. Just over a week later, on April 12, another 696.36 kilograms (1,532 pounds) of cocaine and 37 pounds of cannabis, worth EC$18.8 million and EC$74,000 respectively, were found and seized from a farm property in the Castle Bruce area.

Why this matters: The massive drug bust deals a significant blow to the illicit drug trade in the Caribbean region. It highlights the Dominica Police Force's commitment to combating drug trafficking and its associated crimes that pose a threat to public safety and security.

National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore praised the police for their outstanding work in the anti-drug operations. "This was the largest drug bust in the force's history," Blackmoore stated. He warned that the government will continue to work with regional and international partners to curb the dangerous illegal drug trade and its consequences, including addiction, crime, and violence.

The successful drug busts in Marigot and Castle Bruce mark a major victory for law enforcement in Dominica. Acting Police Chief Valerie commended the officers involved in the operations, emphasizing the police force's dedication to disrupting drug trafficking networks. As the investigation into the seized drugs continues, Minister Blackmoore vowed that the government will remain vigilant in the fight against the illicit drug trade to protect the safety and well-being of Dominica's citizens.

Key Takeaways

• Dominica Police seized 1,393 kg of cocaine and 37 lbs of cannabis worth $37.4M.
• The drug bust was the largest in Dominica's history, occurring in April 2024.
• The seizures disrupted the illicit drug trade in the Caribbean region.
• National Security Minister praised the police for their anti-drug operations.
• The government vowed to remain vigilant in fighting the illegal drug trade.